Advice to a Teenager

More poetic advice, this time a recent poem for a young man of my acquaintance:

Advice to a Teenage Boy

girls are people too

just like me and you

talk to them the way you would

to anyone, they’ll feel good

ask them what they like to do

maybe they will ask you too

show some interest, take some care,

don’t forget to wash your hair

ask them to a movie show

or for a soda or, you know,

anything you like to do

maybe she will like it too

don’t be shy, but don’t be crass

show restraint, display some class

don’t get overly excited

or the whole thing might get blighted

remember this is not the last

any awkwardness will pass

assume she’s interested to go

until she tells you it’s a no

don’t get down if she rebuffs you

life is tough and sometimes cuffs you

you can ask her out once more

three times even, but not four

move along then, you will find

other girls to feed your mind

and to satisfy your longing

and to make you feel belonging

talk and share and dance and eat

and stay lively on your feet

but don’t lie, and DO NOT CHEAT

take it easy as you go

let things follow with the flow

speak up bravely to begin things
then just be yourself within things

finally you’ll feel okay

and if not, you’re on your way

say hello or say good-bye

never really wonder why

it’s just life that’s passing by

so talk to girls if you like

ask them out, be sharp and bright

it’s the way of all the race

all are looking for a place

but you’re young and should be checking

more than one before selecting

do it then and don’t take fright

everything will be all right