When Freedom Isn't

The following is based on a real discussion with my—then—fifteen-year-old son, who didn’t believe in the rules his parents—or anyone ‘official’—were trying to enforce.

All he wanted was his ‘freedom’!

It turned out to be an interesting discussion.

And even more pertinent in 2020 than it was in 1995!

“Freedom’s what I want!” he said. “And what I really need!

“No one to tell me what to do, and none to intercede.

“Just let me live my life,” he said. “And I’ll let you live yours.

“I won’t be forced to follow rules or do things I abhor!”

“That’s ‘freedom’ in your point of view? Life’s just a big buffet?

“Just take the things you want?” I said. “And never have to pay?”

He puffed his fifteen-year-old chest and struck an ‘adult’ pose,

“One day you’ll see I’m right. Obeying rules really blows!”

“To do away with rules and laws? Well that sounds really swell!

“But remember while you’re doing this, th’other guy is as well!

“So guard your ‘stuff’ with all your might, and guard yourself as well,

“Cause just like you, your neighbour’s free to steal or raise some hell.”

“I know there’s lots of things you want to do when you’re fifteen,

“And rules might sound restrictive, dull, and, let’s just face it, mean,

“They hold you down and really seem as bonds that tie and chafe

“But let me tell you, Son,” I said. “These rules will keep you safe!”

Once a month, our Karen challenges each of us to rhyme,

And we try to fulfill this challenge each and every time,

This month, because of all that's going on both far and near,

We felt that Freedom was the topic 'bout which we should hear.

Karen of Baking In A Tornado: Short and Clear
Lydia of Cluttered Genius: Cost of Freedom