Shel Silverstein was famous for his children’s poetry but he was also a prolific songwriter, penning such hits as, “A Boy Named Sue”, performed by Johnny Cash. Children know him for his quirky verse in the bestselling books, “A Light in the Attic” and “Where the Sidewalk Ends”.
I particularly like this one. I tried very hard to be patient with my mother when she became aged; in hindsight, I wish I could go back now and pay more attention to her. For those of you who still have parents, ask them questions and listen to their stories. Take it from me: you won’t always have the chance.
The Little Boy and the Old Man
by Shel Silverstein
Said the little boy, “Sometimes I drop my spoon.”
Said the old man, “I do that too.”
The little boy whispered, “I wet my pants.”
“I do that too,” laughed the little old man.
Said the little boy, “I often cry.”
The old man nodded, “So do I.”
“But worst of all,” said the boy, “it seems
Grown-ups don’t pay attention to me.”
And he felt the warmth of a wrinkled old hand.
“I know what you mean,” said the little old man.
Good post, Anne. One major comment I remember my parents making whenever they went especially out of their way to spend time with my grandmother (even when it wasn’t “convenient”) was, “No regrets.” Apparently they’d learned earlier that if they didn’t make that extra effort, it would one day be too late. It’s a good lesson to remember; thanks for the reminder!