Conformation
When we're just tots we're much the same
For we conform like drops of rain
At least to those outside our world
Whose eyes don't reach our inner swirl.Dependent we for food and care;
We're carried, cleansed, tossed in the air
With joyful glee and laughter free –
We find we are part of family.As time goes on, they difference find;
At first delight comes to their mind,
But when we cross forbidden lines,
With sighs they management resign –Not all at once, but bit by bit;
To rising power they each submit –
Uneasy, handing over reins
Of life – they see we're not the same.From difference – power, anxiety;
It's scary as we future see;
But driven from way deep in us
We find ourselves moved forward thus.There's safety in conformity
(Like childhood in our family);
As we leave home we cast about
For folks whose friendship we don't doubt.Again, it's mixed, we're not the same;
As time goes on, we freedom gain;
We go our ways, parts overlap
With other folks, but huge the gap.We take our place in daily life;
For some there's husband, child, and wife;
We make our contributions fair;
Retire; relax; then face despair –For there in Seniors’ Home we find
Like past, conforming pressure’s line:
They think we all like children are
But through the years we've wandered far.They look at us, see drops of rain
With parts that differ, yet the same;
They see us crinkled; not much use;
Like kids, not left to wonder loose.Will conformation be complete
As for attention we compete?
I think not so, we've gone too far,
For deep inside, unique we are.navigation