As the Twig is Bent

Young tree is planted

As the twigs encounter bend

So the tree will form.

Photo by Karen Streveler, OSB

 

Heard in college class:

Child’s personality

Formed by five years old

 

Parents were firm but kind

Unknowingly Ted caught on

That’s how I’m to live.

 

Mona’s grades came easy

In vain Susie tried to match

Still overachieves.

 

Raised by next of kin

Who shouted at her mistakes.

Virginia tries too hard.

 

Only as he could.

Phil was encouraged to try

And that worked for him.

 

When I find myself

Irked at Polly’s know-it-all

I could use the “Why?”

 

But when I’m the one

With bossiness abounding

I know I can improve. 

 

 

Janet Thielges, OSB