She has acne. And moods.
She says she is Going through a Phase.
She is trying to
Get her head together.
She doesn’t like parents or teachers or the police.

If I had a treasure,
I’d give her a goodly share so she could
Take a trip around the world,
And wear out her phase.

But I don’t have a treasure, so -
I’ll give her a smile.
I’ll listen to her gripes about
The injustices of life.

Sometimes, I’ll laugh with her;
And sometimes, I’ll cry with her,
But I’ll be her friend.
I’ll show her honesty and loyalty.

And I won’t lose patience with her,
I hope.
I’ll do my best,
And I’ll pray.