It’s known if monkey see, then monkey do.
That’s how small apes and babies learn to be.
So watch yourself – your boy is watching you.

You act like you expect your words, if true,
to be the way he learns. But don’t you see?
It’s known if monkey see, then monkey do.

You’ll have to move that phone out of your view
if you’d deny him virtuality,
so watch yourself – your boy is watching you.

Of late his fits of temper make you stew.
You’d rather he learn equanimity.
It’s known if monkey see, then monkey do.

When you’re irate, it’s hate and wrath you spew.
Your mien is cold – your scowl’s enmity,
so watch yourself – your boy is watching you.

Respecting repetition is the clue –
use analog, and model courtesy.
It’s known if monkey see, then monkey do.
So watch yourself – your boy is watching you.

(Villanelle)