LeavingFirstTime©2023TonyFallon1122

 LeavingFirstTime©2023TonyFallon1122

I grew up in rural Ireland far from the United States

In a village of small farmers but no big estates

I finished my education early without remorse

And took the first available position in the work force

Even some old positions were becoming redundant

The new opportunities were not too abundant

The positions going were not paying a big amount

Promises do not put money in a savings account

After putting a few shilling in I was almost broke

I did not drink or gamble then but I used to smoke

I cycled around Dublin to save on bus fare

If it was not raining or cold I cycled everywhere

Every morning at work I parked my bike in a rack

And it was always waiting there for me when I got back

Winter nights I sold donations to a soccer pool

That helped many students in Saint Joseph's blind boys school

Summers evenings I played soccer or football until dark

In one of the many playing fields in Phoenix Park

I kept myself physically in tip top condition

Hoping to work one day in building demolition

I realized this life wasn't meant for prosperity

How long in life could I retain my dexterity

Despite some happy days I often felt sad and glum

It was no wonder people turned to beer gin and rum

Prospects weren't many to anyone who was half blind

Yet I was sad for the family and friends I left behind

I left before I was ready but I have no regret

I cried all the way over here on the Aer Lingus jet

Planning my new life in new York I neglected the heat

And after ten days in summer I had two swollen feet

I got special insoles and was told to wear no leather

And it got much better when we got colder weather

This vicious cycle continued into varicose veins

And I had to have an operation to ease the pains

I often dreamed of home but the money was better

My mother kept me in touch with her newsy letter

The years slipped by so quickly my childhood I miss most

I have two grandkids and three sons of whom I often boast

America has changed so much everyone is one sided

No thoughts of insight or empathy we are so divided

In my writing I took to task the hypocrite and phony

I cannot stand the faker I cannot stand baloney

Starting my journey in Ireland I could not predict the end

I hope the ordinary man I never did offend