When I got mad today and hit my child
"For his own good," I reconciled,
And then I realized my plight ...
Today, I taught my child to fight.

When interrupted by the phone,
I said, "Tell them I'm not home."
And then I thought, and had to sigh ...
Today I taught my child to lie.

I told the tax man what I made,
Forgetting cash that was paid,
And than I blushed at this sad feat ...
Today I taught my child to cheat.

I smugly copied a cassette,
To keep me from one more debt,
But now the bells of shame must peal ...
Today I taught my child to steal.

Today I cursed another race,
Oh God, protect what I debase,
For now, I fear it is too late ...
Today I taught my child to hate.

By my example, children learn
That I must lead in life's sojourn,
In such a way they are led
By what is done and not what is said.

Today I gave my child his due
By praise for him instead of rue.
And now I have begun my guide;
Today I gave my child his pride.

I now have reconciled and paid
To IRS all that I have made.
And now I know that this dear youth,
Today has learned from me the truth.

The alms I give are not for show,
And yet, this child must surely know
That charity is worth the price:
Today he saw my sacrifice.

I clasp within a warm embrace
My neighbor of another race.
The great commandment from up above.
Today I taught my child to love.

Someday my child must face alone
This fearsome undertone,
But I have blazed a sure pathway:
Today I taught my child to pray.

Author Unknown