We Were Latchkey Kids Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

I can not remove those impressions made,
In my youth.
Nor can I replace misconceptions done,
Of how my growing up in the projects...
Was not for my sister and I lives filled with fun.
I for one had little if none.
We were latchkey kids!

Chores and responsibility came early for me.
And I made sure my sister Mim,
Didn't think what I did...
Was going to make her life a breeze.

If I had to wash dishes and sweep...
She was not going outside to play,
A game of hide and seek.
I was young and disciplined.
And she, at times, grew to despise me.
But we...
Were latchkey kids.