Poetry With A Mission

...a thought provoking poetical exercise.

Tell me, what exactly is child abuse? Why am I asking? Because I’m confused;
After all, what age is a child, and how does one determine that they’re being abused?
Is it a smack (as some claim), a beating, or rather, sexual molestation,
Or could it also be what we don’t think it is? Oh, please, some clarification!

Could child abuse be ridiculing them, or yelling at them uncontrollably,
Perhaps not scarring them physically, but certainly so emotionally?
Could child abuse be a bad example, one that has them acting as wrongfully,
Or parents steering them in the wrong direction, passing on hang-ups, sadly?

Could child abuse be introducing a child to life-threatening activities,
Or giving them unhealthy food, perhaps in order to quieten them, or to please?
Could child abuse be introducing a child to substances that could injure them,
Or that might create an addiction, from which trouble and heartache might later stem?

Could child abuse be teasing them, leaving them on their own in a car, or at home,
Or neglected discipline, an unsecured gate whereby onto a road they might roam?
Could child abuse be not taking them to a doctor when taking them would be wise,
Or sending them to school without lunch, giving them nasty frights that could traumatize?

Could it be exposing them to pedophiles via dressing them up sexy, publicly;
I’m referring to daughters, barely school age, sporting makeup, dressed in what’s skimpy?
In other words, child beauty contests, where little girls are made to look adult-like,
Which the corrupted and villainous desires of a pedophile must excite?

Could it be exposing their very sensitive fragile hearing to injury,
Via home or car stereos that thump away pumping out some harmful frequency,
And whilst that child is trapped (as it were) inside their home, or buckled in their car seat,
Having no control (whatsoever) over that excessive volume, mind numbing beat?

Could it be exposing their hearing to those praise sessions that one hears nowadays,
Where musicians via electric guitars and drum-kits crank it up in order to please?
Mothers holding babies, children seated near the front, volume far to loud for all;
And if not at praise sessions, some noisy concert, or noisy function in a hall?

Could it be exposing their hearing to the likes of sports events where crowds often roar,
Or noisy racetracks, or indeed anywhere where noise and voices too loudly soar?
Yes, to any injurious noise at all that could be avoided, and that should be
Wherever there is sensitive fragile hearing that could be damaged very easily?

Could it be exposing their innocent eyes to any violence on TV,
Or that which is seen via computer games, cartoons, comics, or even publicly,
That being, what’s seen on TVs on display in shops, on billboards, buses, magazines, books,
Or to be more precise, almost anywhere that the innocent child nowadays looks?

Could it be exposing their eyes to adult sexuality that’s also seen,
Images beyond their maturity (violence so often a part of that scene),
Images seen too early, and some that shouldn’t be seen at all, shamefully,
Images that young minds can’t assimilate correctly, perhaps try to copy?

Oh, could child abuse also be encouraging a child to play with a toy gun
(Via giving them such), effectively teaching them that pretending to kill is fun?
Or perhaps it’s a knife or sword that suggests approval of such violent pretense,
Overlooking that later in life real violence may occur as a consequence?

Yes, many a love affair with weaponry has turned into a calamity,
A love that so often is encouraged early via imitation weaponry.
And it’s early that most harm is done, I suspect, and no doubt some unwittingly,
But it’s surely still abuse, whether it be done knowingly or ignorantly.

Could child abuse be not being there for them when they need you, and when you could be,
And when you should be, and willingly, not just sometimes, but whenever necessary? 
Could it be leaving them in another's care when they're in need of your company, 
Or not providing them with a sound foundation — a moral compass, effectively?

And tell me, what about marital shouting matches, and all those breakups we see,
In other words, the disintegration of a child’s required security?
Surely these things outweigh a careful smack; and they certainly lead to injury,
Yet, are they considered as child abuse, and also outlawed legislatively?

Why’s there a penalty for certain child abuses, but not the rest, seemingly?
What kind of signal are we sending here? Are we simply displaying hypocrisy?
Is some child abuse acceptable? Do we only outlaw that which seems worse to us,
And over the rest just mutter our disapproval perhaps, not make any fuss?

Hence why I’m seeking clarification, 'cause there’s a glaring inconsistency
Given that these other things I’ve mentioned are harmful, yet, not outlawed legislatively.
Seems a smack, a beating, and sexual molestation are the preoccupation,
And why I ask: What exactly is child abuse? Please further my education.

(Yes, I could have mentioned more abuses).

By Lance Landall


“What is done to children, they will do to society.”
Karl A. Menninger, Psychiatrist (1893-1990)

"Child abuse casts a shadow the length of a lifetime.”
Herbert Ward

2.  Mind How You Treat The Young

Be patient with the young, 'cause their emotions are tender, fragile, and they, lacking in maturity,
Given experience comes with age, and the longer we live, the more such we gain, naturally.
And with experience comes maturity, better understanding, more self-control, hopefully so,
'Cause in such areas, even adults can be lacking, and certain things not appreciate or know.

Youngsters need that gentle touch that gives them room to learn and grow, though knowing where firmness is needed,
'Cause those who neglect such importance soon see wisdom, instruction and boundaries not being heeded.
A wise and loving firmness where such is clearly needed gives young people a sense of security,
'Cause the gentle touch is one thing, but folly another, 'cause we're all to learn responsibility.

But first must come that gentle touch, lest some youngster lose heart — and oh, how they can so very easily,
More so if their tender feelings and over concerns are laughed at, made light of, most insensitively.
And even more so where put-downs come their way, 'cause they need encouragement and others who believe in them,
'Cause too many are quick to spot a young person’s failings, and rather than helping, destructively condemn.

Many youngsters go off the rails due to accumulated thoughtless hits they’ve been subjected to, sadly,
And there're those who commit suicide, be that consciously, or midst drug and alcohol morbidity.
Hence why we need to be careful regarding youngsters, and given that they don’t see through older eyes,
Which is why they do crazy things, just like their parents did when younger, which now, totally mystifies.

 By Lance Landall


This poem was upgraded 10 February 2020.

3.  The Young Aren't Stupid

Young folk don’t like pussyfooters, but rather, like to know all the facts, the truth of the matter,
And this, so apparent when young people get together and amongst themselves duly chatter.
Yes, no messing about for them, they calling it as it is, and thus into reality,
For pussyfooting just wastes time, it weak where one oft needs to be bold and clear in their duty.

Yes, the young aren’t stupid, so we shouldn’t treat them like fools, but call a spade a spade, help them see,
Be it via the home, pulpit or classroom, so that whatever’s said be taken seriously.
In other words, no PC nonsense, nor mistaken kindness, for such never serves anyone well,
And more so the young who don’t want to be wrapped in cotton wool, and to whom the truth we should tell.

At the end of the day, we live in a harsh, cold world, one that’s in serious trouble, sadly,
And one reason why is, because homes, pulpits and classrooms have gone soft on instructing clearly.
Or aren’t instructing at all, nor dispensing that discipline that gives the young security,
For love knows that there must be boundaries, a sound foundation, followed by accountability.

So let’s tell the young what they need to hear, and no messing about, for they need such direction,
And we shoring this up with an interested understanding-cum-empathy and affection.
Yes, tell them the truth, share values, principles, standards and morals, and not from some pious tree top,
But meet them where they are, not leaning on some weak, selfish, pussyfooting around, PC prop.

The truth is, that young people appreciate honesty, and admire courage, (though don’t we all),
They looking for solid rocks midst life’s unpredictable waves, swirling waters, hormonal squall.
And why things will hardly improve until straight talking’s back in fashion, love sometimes acting tough,
For it knows that there’s little value in that misguided, pussyfooting around, PC stuff.

By Lance Landall

4.  Mind Those Young Ones

Especially when your children are young, you should treat them very tenderly,
Installing within them a love for others via that example they should see,
For as the twig is bent; though children should never be treated differently,
But as if they’re a fragile flower, their heart and mind damaged so easily.

Sure they’ll need disciplining, and there’s a need and time and place for such, but hey,
Always err on the side of love lest they’re seen to doubt and perilously stray.
And bearing in mind that they’ve the mind of a child and therefore won’t always see
Until they’ve made those same mistakes that you might have made, and as regretfully.

The truth is, that your children don’t belong to you, but are entrusted to you,
Therefore, you should prove worthy of that trust, minding everything that you say and do.
For little ears and eyes take in much, and why they should be kept from much, for hey,
This world’s full of errant people, much that injures, soils, corrupts and leads astray.

But regarding those errant people,

Dare one be you, for there’s hardly a worse enemy than that one who’s within,
And whereby kids can’t escape some baleful influence or violating grin.
And why they’re in need of that love and care that wouldn’t dream of any cruelty,
Nor knowingly act in some deleterious way, but rather, rightfully.

By Lance Landall





Contains a degree of Christian content neccessary for the purpose.

5.  A Confused Generation

We’ve a confused generation, and as for what’s ahead, pity help us, for come their offspring,
And given things are getting worse (no surprises there), I hate to think what the future will bring.
And some reasons being, because they’re told that violence is wrong, and yet, violence are being fed,
Such saturating computer games, books, magazines, movies and TV, and hence other’s dread…

For we become what we behold, such violence desensitising, enter brutes and bullies,
Our future kids more callous and apt to turn to such, and here, they having a certain expertise.
Yes, for come the school playground, or wherever else, they act such out, their computer killings honed,
They studied in the art of violence, used to blood, gore and plotting, weaponry even owned.

Been watching the News?

(And forgive this digression, but don’t you think it’s quite odd how we condemn animal cruelly,
And yet, gorge on them, are expert in killing and cooking them? Such sending mixed signals, surely.
And then there’s vivisection, sanctioned torture, cruelty and violence having their place, it seems,
Though one could argue here, and I do, that such is humanity coming apart at the seams).

Well, love one hurt one, love one kill one, love one eat one.

Yes, it’s no wonder we’ve a confused generation, once firm foundations shaken to the core,
Kids being reared by homosexual and lesbian couples, nothing clear nor certain anymore.
And hence gay marriages, the aberrant sanctioned by law, and tell me, what’ll be next through the door,
For while such folk shouldn’t be mistreated, shouldn’t sound principles be behind every law?

Even more confused kids coming up.

You see, we can talk about acting humanely until the cows come home, or of human rights,
But any law based on aberrance (Nature clear enough), a new script for society writes.
And one that tips everything upside down, we deludedly thinking we’re acting more humane,
When the truth is, we’re exchanging one problem for another, and have far more to lose than gain.

And as far as God goes, if kids are taught about God, seems He’s who and how one perceives Him to be,
And just as silly, seems Heaven’s also for those who willingly continue to act badly
(Just so long as they’ve accepted God, apparently), and hence why more Christians are acting badly,
For such a belief hardly improves one’s behaviour, and to be frank, makes this a reality...

Yes, if folk can still get what they want whilst doing and remaining the same, they will, believe me,
For that’s how most folk are, and hence those professions of faith that are lacking in sincerity.
Oh yes, such folk may believe, acknowledge things mentally, but as far as true commitment goes,
It’s seldom that such folk pass the acid test, such being something that the Bible says God knows.

And doesn’t it say something about obedience?

The truth is, that we can’t get past the fact that we need morals, principles, standards, values and
Certain boundaries-cum-sound, protective laws, for where they are absent, things soon get out of hand,
Which they have, for society has turned its back on sense, hence why we see every kind of offence,
And what can we expect given that we’ve been busy pulling down every wise and needed fence?

You know,

I was thinking about competitiveness, and how as a Christian such I cannot endorse,
For such pits person against person, is contrary to the putting others first Christian course.
In other words, the Gospel appeal to die to self, and that “Do unto others as you would
Have them do unto you” principle, which to be honest, most aren’t living up to as they should.

Well, as I pondered on such, I thought about non-Christians too, and the following came to me:
We’ve two choices, to live by Christian principles or that each one for themselves mentality,
Which, by the way, belongs with the theory of evolution-cum-no accountability,
As no God, no moral foundation, and thus no day of reckoning, which seems crazy to me.

Let me see now, what can I get away with?

You see, if non-Christians want a world where there’s love, hope, fairness and order, then one thing’s clear:
They’ve no choice but to accept Christian principles for living, for such aren’t plucked out of the air.
And if they do not accept such, then they’ve really no choice but to accept the alternative,
And that being: That anything goes, survival of the fittest approach, via which so many fools live.

And any laws based around or upon such are as changeable as the wind, and built on sand,
They at the whims of whoever is in control, or the fickleness of those throughout each land.
Yes, no absolutes, no guiding light-cum-clear direction, and thus no safety or certainty,
Hence why despite how some folk feel, certain things shouldn’t be allowed, but have been, disastrously!

When a generation (and more), is raised on a visual diet that corrupts their heart and mind,
They’re not only negatively and harmfully moulded, but conscience wise, left deaf, dumb and blind.
And they thus rudderless ships at the mercy of any current or wave, and destined for rocks,
And why we, given the current state of society, are in for more turmoil, pain and shocks.

How many parents join their children in watching and listening to what can only harm them,
And then when their kids copy such (become what they behold), such hypocritically condemn?
If they don’t want their kids playing around, getting into this or that, nor ending up in jail,
Then best they put those fences back up that they’ve helped pull down, replacing every paling and nail.

Yes, we’ve a confused generation, one ripe for the plucking.

By Lance Landall

6.  Should Mums Stay At Home?

Cindy had just returned from choir practice, she opening the oven that contained her meal that had been kept,
Though when it came to her doing her own cooking — or dressmaking, for that matter — she was far from inept.
Yes, a very capable fourteen year old, her mother having trained her well, and she much loved and cared for,
And a very level-headed girl too, who all the hallmarks of a good member of society bore.

“Do you think that mothers should stay at home, Dad?” she inquired of her father. He responding attentively.
“Well, as far as a child’s best interests go, yes, such being the ideal, but not always possible, Cindy,
And hence why many mothers are out working these days, most wishing that they could stay at home, undoubtedly,
And I being so glad that my mother was one of those who was able to remain at home, actually.

If you’re happy for me to continue, Cindy, I’ll share a few things with you that may well prove helpful here.”
“Sure, Dad,” Cindy replied nodding her head. She grabbed her plate and fork and moved to a more comfortable chair.
Her father leaned back against the cupboards. “And, by the way, when a mother’s at home, there’s lots she gets to see,
Unlike those mothers who tend to miss so much when their children are placed in a childcare centre daily.

Those initial years provide a special bonding time, the most time a mother spends with her child, actually,
For once school starts, that time together becomes limited, and more so when that child starts work, naturally.
And those first few years are far more crucial than many realise — moulding wise, that is, hence that need for great care,
Lest the influence of other children and adults impact negatively, and that they oft do is clear.

Thus it’s a question of whether one should take that chance, and of how important one considers such to be,
Given that the more time spent with her child, the more say that mother has in forming it’s character, you see.
And then there’s how much it means to a mother to closely observe those first years-cum-changes, gone so quickly,
And yes, kids left at childcare centres can feel less wanted underneath, and once at home, their mum so busy.”

“A slight digression:

From tiny to near the end of my school years, I benefited from the security and certainty
Of my mother always being at home, and thus being there when I needed her come sickness or anxiety.
And believe me, nothing beats a mother’s tenderness, fathers oft too masculine for their own good, sadly,
Let alone their wife’s and child’s good, and why my dear mother listened with greater empathy and sympathy.

And you know,

When a husband truly loves and protects his wife, and she is able to stay at home as a full-time mum,
She’s less stressed, more happier, able to give more time to him and their child — and oh, teenage years oft troublesome.
Enter me, and my mum seeking employment near the end of my school years, and that’s when I got into strife,
For it’s just so much easier for such to happen when a woman becomes a working mother and wife,

And children are on their own at home.

Yes, a wife-cum-mother’s role is so much easier when a woman is able to stay at home each day,
And with her being there, her children have access to immediate help, and thus are far less likely to stray.
All thanks to those loving and watchful eyes, and that house where mum’s less absent, and more focussed on love and care,
She having the time for such, her loyalty not split between home and work, for oh, how such can interfere.”

When a man goes to work, leaving his wife at home, he feels like he’s really looking after her — well, more so,
She more able to relax and enjoy life, she being treated more like a princess — somewhat cocooned, you know.
And by that I mean, he sheltering her from the rough and tumble of working life, that big bad world out there,
Where his looking after her, and her children, makes him feel more like a man, she waiting for him to appear.

Yes, nothing beats that warm home, that yummy smell of food, that attractive dress, and that “I’m home!” cuddle and kiss,
Which as far as I’m concerned, blows the socks off any drug on the market, be such champagne or cannabis.”
Cindy laughed. “Oh dad, I can’t wait to get married.”  “Well, all in good time,” her dad replied, a smile on his face,
For what man doesn’t want the best for his wife and children, and why I believe that home is the better place,

For wives-cum-mothers, that is.

By Lance Landall


A more hard hitting poem titled To The Angry Young, and also in regards to latchkey kids, is found on my Home page and in the orange box titled The Angry And The Damaged.

Recommended reading: Home By Choice by Brenda Hunter, Ph.D. (Raising emotionally secure children in an insecure world). This book details and exposes the emotional scars-cum-serious consequences that can occur due to placing babies, infants, toddlers-cum-preschoolers in childcare centres.


Benjamin Spock, who told an entire generation of parents to not discipline their children, stated this before his death:

"We have reared a generation of brats. Parents aren't firm enough with their children for fear of losing their love or incurring their resentment. This is a cruel deprivation that we professionals have imposed on mothers and fathers. Of course we did it with the best of intentions. We didn't realize until it was too late how our know-it-all atitude was undermining the self-assurance of parents."
CETF magazine, March 2009

7.  Reason To Be Frightened

Children raised by parents lacking morals, principles and standards, will be worse,
And their children worse again, and thus this world under a self-inflicted curse.
Oh, the sins of the fathers.
And this sad prospect why we’ve reason to be frightened, it real and underway,
Humanity becoming less humane, the appalling growing by the day.

The sixties sexual revolution and its rebellion on a mass scale
Has resulted in every boundary being lashed by its selfish gale.
And there’s no letting up, women oft as bad as men, and their kids worse than them,
Undisciplined and criminals-in-waiting hanging on their rudderless mother’s hem.

Yes, soon to be pub crawlers, bed hoppers, trash watchers, junk eaters, arm prickers,
And foul mouthed, self absorbed, authority bucking, God mocking, virtue kickers.
No, not a pretty scenario is it, but occurring before our eyes,
And given those children of those so-called enlightened hippies, it’s no surprise.

Yes, I have heard and seen the talk and antics of such parents in the work force;
Oh, if only their partners knew, though most as bad, equally askew and coarse.
Those wise Christian-based morals, principles and standards now largely discarded,
And for what? Nothing able to match them, and hence that destructive damp and rot,

The madhouse of folly about to fall, humanity blowing its last shot.

By Lance Landall


“What is done to children, they will do to society.”
Karl A. Menninger, Psychiatrist (1893-1990)

"At the rate America is decaying morally, we shall have to change our national symbol from an eagle to a vulture."
Vance Havner (1901-1986)

"If God doesn't destroy Hollywood Boulevard, He owes Sodom and Gomorrah an apology."
Jay Leno

8.  Surely Not Your Child

Why did you bring me into this world if you’re not working to make it better?
The tears of oppression, poverty and suffering making the ground wetter.
And I, your child, am traumatised by images that haunt, many on TV,
Which you, Mum and Dad, allow to flicker in my presence unconcernedly.

I’ve seen you blotto, Dad, Mum too, but those drugs you take say even more to me,
That it doesn't matter what we put in our mouth, do to our brain and body.
And I guess that is why nothing much really changed when Mum was carrying me;
Too bad about my appearance and health, but this planet another story.

So,

Why aren’t you busy trying to do all you can to improve society?
Because that’s what I’ve been born into, and surely you’re wanting the best for me.
Well, so I would’ve thought, but it’s as if you’re not around, otherwise busy,
And I left chatting to builders and painters, those delivery guys I see.

And hey,

That family across the street needs help, they appearing most unhappy,
Their kids worse off than me, and oft getting into mischief, unsurprisingly,
’Cause they get away with so much, and haven’t been taught much either, and therefore,
Will probably turn out to be trouble makers with no respect for the law,

No real example having been set, and before I forget,

Why did you bring me into this world if when I die that’s it, nothing beyond?
You not believing in God like others do, but more Harry Potter’s daft wand.
My ancestors monkeys, you say, their beginnings some big bang, apparently,
Hence no reason for us being here, and why you’re showing less concern, maybe.

So I guess I’ll just find my own way, think and do what I like, basically,
I emulating you, and doing just as little to change society.
Though for some reason, I hoping not, because such seems the whole problem to me,
And why there’s surely more meaning to life, though finding it, coming down to me,

Otherwise, why would I want to have a child of my own, such surely unfair,
I having no sound reasons to offer him or her, and maybe just a beer.
Yes, my child asking the same questions, and if I don’t have sound answers, oh dear,
There may will be another bothered child, one wondering why he needs to care,

Or she.

By Lance Landall

9.  Tragedies Of The One Night Stands

There’s naught better on TV than those programmes where people are reunited after many years,
And seeing again (or even for the first time), their siblings, mum or dad, and this, midst hugs and tears.
And the reason for those missed years oft being adoption, or some orphanage-cum-emptiness and pain,
And hence their seeking of answers as well, which might soften and heal their hurt, and certain things explain.

Thus joy and sadness, 'cause their reuniting can’t undo things — and the cause? Oft one night stands, sadly,
Because boy met girl, and well before wedlock that never took place, they got involved sexually.
Hence those solo mums (or dads), those kids without a mum or dad, and so oft without their siblings too,
All because of a short relationship, that lack of control, those passions of youth, which many rue.

Oh, how such offspring suffer, they feeling a big hole in their life, even affected mentally,
And by that I mean, they struggling emotionally, troubled, listless, depressed, they victims, clearly.
Though I'm not unmindful of the failings of youngsters, given good judgment oft only comes with age
(And thus oft results in injured offspring), I can’t help but over such injury quietly rage.

Rage?

Well, it’s such a sad thing that these kids suffer so, all because of casual sex, effectively,
That indulging in sex outside of wedlock, now viewed as being okay, when how can such be?
'Cause such can lead to kids — in other words, an abortion, adoption, or some orphanage, sadly,
Thus neither we nor the martial institution ever benefiting from promiscuity?

By Lance Landall


This poem was upgraded 6 February 2020.

10.  Those Youngsters

Mind how you treat your children, lest you simply end up repeating history,
Remembering that they’re on loan, that they're not possessions, for why should they be?
And that as time goes by, they will leave you, and will start a new life of their own,
For you’re simply minding them, as they’ve only been entrusted — yes, they’re on loan.

No, they’re certainly not yours to own, so, don’t go treating them any old way,
Otherwise, sooner or later, those youngsters you have, will no doubt go astray.
For they need lots of tender loving care, as well as firm discipline that's fair,
Alias appropriate direction, and yes, an ever listening ear.

Don't expect those children in your care to think like adults, for adults they aren’t,
No, for they are purely and simply children; and quite honestly, they just can’t.
Yes, surely you know as well as I do, that the older we older folk get,
The more fully we begin to appreciate that we still haven’t got there yet.

Therefore, ponder on those times when you were younger. Did you think like an adult?
No, for you had the mind of a child, which the years weren't able to somehow vault.
Children were designed to think like children, as it can’t be any other way,
So, mind all those expectations that you have, and a good example display.

Teach your children right from wrong, and tell them whatever they are needing to hear,
Yes, tell them that there are certain boundaries, and make those limits very clear.
But also expect some disappointments, for children must crawl before they walk,
And in-between they will often tumble, and will need your reassuring talk.

A child's mind is very tender, and thus can be damaged very easily,
Therefore, mind how you speak to them, always loving them open-heartedly.
For cutting words and harsh actions can leave deep wounds that don't always heal with time,
And that often leave children with a large mountain that takes many years to climb.

No, neither their mind nor their body should somehow suffer from any abuse;
Are you listening parents? For you have no right to harm — no, you've no excuse!
For they too, have certain things they have to deal with, which may not seem much to you,
But to them, they mean a great deal — so please don't hinder, but rather, help them through.

By Lance Landall

11.  Nine Times Out Of Ten

Includes some Christian content.

12.  The Concerning Generation

Everyone must choose for them self, this path or that path, this way or that way,
All why there comes a time when every grownup kid should have their own say.
Be it beliefs or viewpoints, be it right or wrong, they must choose for them self, and
Accept the outcome, and thereby, possibly innocent or guilty will stand.

But what chance has the kid who right or wrong hasn’t been taught, and who discipline
Has hardly received, nor been exposed to that hope that’s known to each Christian.
And “Spare the rod and spoil the child” not some draconian teaching, I must say,
All why I’m mentioning the following incident that I witnessed one day.

As his dad watched, a little kid stomped his gumboots in a puddle, as they do,
And fair enough, but when he tried to sit in that puddle, then things went askew.
His father rightly having none of that, and thus quickly lifted him away,
Only to suffer a hullabaloo, that kid determined to have his way.

Yes, a short, sharp smack would’ve done the trick, but such outlawed, ridiculously,
Thus that dad struggling with flailing arms and kicking legs — a rebel, quite frankly.
Oh, how embarrassed and helpless that father looked, and hey, no surprises there,
Because that naughty little boy had been deprived of corrective healthy fear.

Such reminding me of that lack of healthy fear found amongst many Christians,
Who foolishly think God’s grace will spare them from ongoing deliberate sins.
They deluded and devoid of healthy fear, ’cause “Repent!” God has said, which means:
“Stop your rebelliousness, ’cause there will be results,” and yet, still those lawless scenes.

All why the current generation is running amuck, which many can see
Who work in schools and childcare centres, or employed with the constabulary.
Yes, cheek and lawlessness abounding, and so too a lack of love, thought and care,
And it’s no wonder when kids know that there’s little that will happen if they dare.

If I’d been a kid to whom little would’ve happened should I have misbehaved,
Misbehave I would have, despite how regarding my welfare, my parents slaved.
After all, we’re all born self-oriented, and hence that need of discipline,
And that other healthy fear, that day of reckoning known to each Christian.

And healthy fear being respect and an appreciation for what might be,
Like that early smack that spares both kid and parent from hassles and misery.
Bad behaviour having risen with that hands-off law, because smacks bear more weight,
And have naught to do with child abuse, but halting further ill and some sad fate.

By Lance Landall


A small correction was made to this poem on 5 April 2021.
After smacking was outlawed in New Zealand in 2007, child abuse increased
(just as I predicted).
See poem below, and the quote under it too.

13.  The Seat Of Learning

“Don’t smack,” they say, but hey, who’s giving kids health robbing, mood altering junk food,
And letting them watch what’s violent, lawless, debased, plain silly, false and crude?
Yes, it's often those very parents who thus stand condemned of hypocrisy,
And why their kids are no better off, or worse; as if a light smack hurt any.

Remove a parent’s last resort — smacking — and enter serious frustration,
That sudden explosion that erupts one day with far greater devastation.
And no wonder, for our bottom’s not called the seat of learning for nothing, and
Why cheek and daring grow bolder where there’s not that healthy dose of fear-cum-hand.

Yes, imperfect world, imperfect means, for we’re all born with a rebellious bent,
And why undisciplined kids become selfish monsters who annoy and torment.
And so it is with most of us too, for remove those laws that govern the land,
And who’d be a model citizen, and guiltless before a jury could stand?

At the end of the day,

A smack is simply a smack, it's not a punch, clout or kick, but a vehicle,
One with no intention to harm, but rather, deliver kids from any ill.
For oft it's only that authoritative jolt that carries any real weight,
And why “Don’t smack!” yells aren’t in touch with reality — but this, oft seen too late.

Oh, how folk swing from one side to the other, sense and balance always the cost,
And thus by the time they've woken up, much that was actually right, gone, lost.
And meantime that hypocrisy, they protecting here but endangering there,
Seemingly less concerned about where their kids go, what they do, watch, read or hear.

By Lance Landall


Benjamin Spock, who told an entire generation of parents to not discipline their children,
stated this before his death:
"We have reared a generation of brats. Parents aren't firm enough with their children for fear of losing their love or incurring their resentment. This is a cruel deprivation that we professionals have imposed on mothers and fathers.
Of course we did it with the best of intentions. We didn't realize until it was too late how our know-it-all atitude was undermining the self-assurance of parents."
CETF magazine, March 2009

14.  Even Nature Knows

I’ve six children whom I love, whom I’ve raised; and came to see
That a smack’s not child abuse when administered rightly.
Many animals cuff their young instinctively, wisely,
Knowing there’s a time and place, otherwise trouble there’ll be.

Yes, even nature shows us that there is a time and place,
Not that I’m saying to cuff, for it’s hands off a child’s face.
But a smack on their bottom, right behaviour will restore,
Where rebellion persists, resists authority, parental law.

Though there’re other ways to discipline, one shouldn’t rule out
That last resort — an appropriate smack — to bring a turnabout.
For if the bottom’s not dusted very early when needed,
It’s a given that sometime, somewhere, authority won’t be heeded.

Yes, even nature knows this, and responds accordingly,
Well aware that there are times when such is necessary.
When one can, one should avoid smacking, but only where one should,
For due smacks left unapplied will soon curse the neighbourhood.

Outlawing smacking won’t stop child abuse, nor folk smacking,
Despite any choruses that an opposite view sing.
Any law, whatever it is, many have (will) just break, so,
Let’s not get carried away, but rather, commonsense show.

Personally, I see parents getting more frustrated
Who wish to smack, but don’t, as “Don’t do so” was legislated.
Frustration can lead to anger, then anger to abuse,
Not that I am saying here that frustration’s an excuse.

Parents need some leeway when it comes to discipline. In fact,
All authority needs a certain leeway to sensibly act.
Knots are meant for ropes alone, though even knots can be undone,
But not so easily unwise legislation that sense would shun.

By Lance Landall

15.  A Time And Place

Imperfect world, imperfect means, hence the necessary smack,
One administered wisely, for such, helps children stay on track.
Many folk smacked as children, and who have children of their own,
Realize that there’s a time and place, and rightful smacking condone.

Because smacking has been abused, there are those who want it banned,
But I believe that such action, more naughtiness will see fanned.
For sometimes a smack is needed, and much better understood;
A necessary evil, so to speak, for the greater good.

There will always be abusers, regardless of any law,
But sometimes a foolish law just brings more trouble than before.
Many folk have discovered that where smacking has been removed,
Things have quickly gone down hill, and predictably not improved.

But smacking is a parents right where it doesn't cross the line,
A quick smack on the bottom, where and when needed, being fine.
However, a beating or whipping, a thump, clout or a whack,
Are clearly unacceptable, for such is hardly a smack.

Some people who’ve been abused, understandably “Don’t smack!” shout,
And therefore, both the baby and the bathwater just throw out.
Due to their sad experience, they’ve lost their objectivity,
And have joined the ranks of those who say that smacking shouldn’t be.

Those who truly love their child will always seek to do what’s best,
Hence why the disciplined child is a child that's truly blessed.
Love’s discerning eye can see that sometimes painful things are needed,
To achieve a turnaround where wisdom has not been heeded.

A smack that is given in love, can prevent much future pain,
But a needed smack that's withheld, can see naughtiness soon reign.
Smacking is love in action, for it shows the child that we care,
And where smacking is done early, it’s not long before it’s rare.

Yes, smacking I wouldn’t shun. Like everything, it’s how it’s done.

By Lance Landall

16.  And So It Goes

“Don’t smack your child!” they cry, but let them savagery see,
Via the movie theater, those videos or TV.
Let them watch all those cartoons, let them read those comics too,
Where viciousness and cruelty are displayed for them to view.

“Don’t smack your child!” they wail, but let them violence see,
Splashed throughout those news broadcasts (during dinner) on TV.
Let them crime and war scenes watch where gruesome reports repel,
Or any advertising using violence to sell.

“Don’t smack your child!” they cry, but let them thuggery see,
Via such sports as boxing where they punch repeatedly.
Yes, let them watch those knock-outs, and those bloodied faces too,
And the audience braying like hyped up audiences do.

“Don’t smack your child!” they shout, but let them animals kill,
Tell them that it’s just for sport, and say, “Hone your killing skill.”
Then encourage them further by purchasing them a gun,
So they’ll soon think that killing is a barrel full of fun.

“Don’t smack your child!” they cry, but let them unsound things see,
Like bawdy sexual scenes, yes, soft-core pornography.
Scenes where force stifles a plea, or where “No” really means “Yes,”
And where two married actors their own marriage vows transgress.

“Don’t smack your child!” they holler, but let them crudity hear,
And the foul language also, that soon will echo elsewhere.
Let them watch rude gestures too, that they’ll copy when at school,
And all those bad role models that they’ll soon consider cool.

“Don’t smack your child!” they cry, but damage their fragile ears
Via those stereo speakers with that thump that soon impairs.
While they’re captive in your car, or reclining at home too,
Let those speakers loudly thump like so many parents do.

“Don’t smack your child!” they howl, but let them take in that smoke
Blown from your cigarette that some illness will provoke.
Let them share your cigarettes, let them other drugs have too,
Let them have their party pills so that damage will accrue.

“Don’t smack your child!” they cry, but let them spirits guzzle,
And later, when they’re arrested, watch them shake their head and puzzle.
Leave them with that thumping head, and those red eyes they will rub,
As they sleep off the effects of time wasted in the pub.

“Don’t smack your child!” they roar, but yell at them, call them names,
Do and say repeatedly what children emotionally maims.
Tell them that you’re too busy to stop and chat or play with them,
Make promises you won’t keep, and their faults repeat, condemn.

“Don’t smack your child!” they cry, but aggression encourage,
Via the competitive spirit that envy can cause, or folk discourage.
Fuel a selfish ambition that selflessness cuts across,
Via such rivalry where one gains through another’s loss.

Yes, I’m sure you’ve got the point — that’s right, inconsistency,
Which some who’re anti-smacking side step hypocritically.
While busy downing smacking, they are turning a blind eye
To what are really dangers, and this begs the question, “Why?”

By Lance Landall

17.  Tell Someone

Dear child, suffering from savage deeds that still remain hidden, please tell someone,
Because such evil should never remain hidden; it’s time that justice was done.
And I’m sure you’re longing for such, in need of healing too, but such will not come
Until both the ill and that perpetrator are revealed, time beating a drum.

We’re aware of the tears, that inner cry within you, ’cause you’re one of many,
When there shouldn’t be any, such vile wrong knowing nothing of love and mercy.
So, it doesn’t matter who it is, you must tell someone, someone who’ll help you,
Not letting fear gain your silence, ’cause who knows how much you’ve already been through.

Yes, all the trauma, hurt and pain, it seeming like an eternity, no doubt,
And hence why that darkness needs sunlight — in other words, for the truth to come out.
And that time could come now, if you’ll just choose, not worrying who you betray,
'Cause they’ve betrayed you, and to every such ill done, there needs to come a day.

By Lance Landall


You might wish to check out my Christian poem on the same subject called Don't Worry Little Boy which is found in the orange box titled Stop The Charade!, Christian section.





Contains Christian content or degree.

18.  A Crime That Enrages Heaven

Any man of the cloth who uses his position to molest young children,
Seriously stirs the wrath of God, who, for a future date, records that sin.
And grave that sin is, as if they’d done it to God himself, hence that coming day,
Because no one will get away with such (in the end), thus justice on its way.

Oh, how dare they misuse the Church, how dare they violate the innocent young,
And how dare they shame the God of love, who, because of sin, on Calvary hung.
Oh, what an insult — yes, left, right and centre, a crime that enrages Heaven,
And where God in judgment sits, so woe betide that errant man, so-called Christian.

By Lance Landall

19.  The Paedophile's Shadow

I’d be the first to condemn the act of a paedophile, believe me,
But paedophile paranoia isn’t good either, quite honestly.
And such is why innocent grandfathers can feel very uneasy
When they’re alone with their grandchild, or when acting affectionately.

Or when near public toilets, I might add, all of which is most unfair,
And a concern to them, lest they, a paedophile seemingly appear.
I’m talking, those furtive glances they can get, that can make them feel so,
And why some, a trip to a public toilet with their grandchild may forgo.

Yes, I am aware that paedophilia and child porn are widespread,
But let’s not go responding in a way that fills many men with dread.
Men like grandfathers, fathers, male teachers, who’d never ever molest,
And who, paedophilia and child porn, totally condemn, detest.

The concern being expressed, is, that innocent actions may be misread,
And why rather than teaching, some men will take up something else instead.
Or why some granddads will ease off the affection, not be around as much,
Lest someone look at them suspiciously, misinterpreting a touch.

These concerns are certainly very real, given the paranoia,
Which effectively operates as a reputation destroyer.
By that I mean, all those aspersions cast upon innocent men, who,
The evils of paedophilia would never condone, nor pursue.

Sadly so, such seems to be a male’s lot these days, universally,
Thanks to a paedophile paranoia that’s gripping society.
And which no doubt is impacting on some grandchildren negatively,
And on children in need of father figures, some worthy male company.

Yes, I would be the first to condemn paedophilia, believe me,
But paedophile paranoia is also destructive, unhealthy.
And like I said, hard on grandfathers, fathers, male teachers, innocent men,
Whose unfortunate plight, I’m bringing to your attention via the pen,
And asking: Please don’t let the paedophile’s shadow fall on good men.

By Lance Landall


Recommended reading: Epidemic by Lori Handrahan, PHD. America's trade in child rape.

20.  Child Beauty Pageants

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