Discipline (1982)

If only I could have started when young

to control my temper and check my tongue

If My parents had raised me thus

I wouldn't shout and wouldn't cuss

Too if there had been discipline

there wouldn't be the mess I'm in

A spanking here a corner there

teaching me virtue to wear

Some discussion at time of night

to teach me what was wrong and right

So in learning prudent to be

I wouldn't think that life's a spree

So many years I hate to think

I've spent living on the brink

of what is bad and brings us woe

and only now I've begun to know

I have so little capacity

to do good with tenacity

Why my parents did the way

allowing me this far to stray

and is beyond my mind to know

Since young they were some time ago

Because my wayward course is strong

The lessons are hard as well as long

Instructing me just how to be

that goodness doesn't come easily

I supoose the cycles viscious at best

Not even leaving my children some rest

Now to cope with what is I

Gives them their strongest alibi

Condemned with natures duel faces

all my failings and disgraces

Gives to them their best excuses

Life is only but to deuces

Confusing knowledge comes in plenty

perplexing problems before your twenty

So my child says to me

as I bend him on my knee

Not so fair to do this way

with a spanking for my pay

Don't you know that back in time

Adam fathered this family line

I can't help it as you see

born this way I was to be

Yes my child that is true

But strive to learn you need to do

For I endeavor at my best

to make your life one that is blessed

So work hard while you are young

to control your temper and check your tongue

Do not shout and do not cuss

and you shall find by living thus

that doing good comes easily

From bad decisions you'll be free