Then and Now
The sun is setting
In the Western sky
Another workday
Has passed us by.
My mind drifts back
To a time long ago
When the country was young
And the men were bold.
They came from the East
By horse, wagon, and train
To seak their fortunes
And stake their claims.
Opportunities were many
Hard work was the key
As they strived to build
A future for their family.
Some made it big
Some made it small
Some didn't make it at all.
Some on the right side of the law
Some on the wrong
To survive they all had to be strong.
Resonsible each was for themselves
Never to lay blame for failures
Or lack of things on someone else.
As I think on this present day
Many things have changed
Some have stayed the same.
Men still seek their fortunes
And strive to stake their claims
If unsuccessful, they look for others to blame.
Two sides of the law still exist today
For choosing the wrong one
There is a price to pay.
Opportunities are plenty
Hardwork is still the key
But it is not up to the government
To provide for your family.
We are all responsible
For what we do and say
For the future depends
On the choices we make today.
What tomorrow brings
Only the Lord can see
As we try to be successful
In this Land of Liberty.
Roger O'Neil Jr. © 2003