I don’t think Dad was right about the threat
that comes from sitting near the TV set,
or danger to my eyesight if I read
in dim light (sneaking stories into bed).
But of the bigger subjects he spoke true,
like parent negligence that causes death,
or how a stubborn friend’s uncareful view
of health took hers, and stopped her heart and breath.

Or when he demonstrated history
has lessons all can use if we just learn it,
and how a simple answer won’t suffice
to settle complex ills. Conspiracy
requires secrets kept or we’ll discern it.
We’ve gone too far with hate and melting ice.