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The Watch
by
L. D. Woodard


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This little machine I give you,
Is useful anywhere;
It will keep the time correctly
If given the proper care.

It is sparkling in its beauty,
And adjusted to every clime.
It is balanced in all positions
And keeps the best of time.

But, remember, son, remember
That watches do not care;
They will time you to your office
or to the electric chair.

If you think to do an evil,
Just look to see the time,
And put it off an hour;
You will hardly do the crime.

I wish to call your attention
To the time you idle away;
It will cause you grief and heartache
When your hair is growing gray.

So time yourself to duty
And make few the hours you play,
And never think of failing
But push right on your way.


© by L.D. Woodard.


L. D. Woodard was a farmer who lived in Elkhart, Texas, in the 1920s and '30s.

 

 


Post New Comment:
Wilda Morris:
Thanks for sharing this old but true poem. Though, as Lori hints, we all need some play.
Posted 05/26/2024 10:41 PM
Lori Levy:
Like the poem, but not sure about "make few the hours you play"!
Posted 05/23/2024 02:08 PM
carlpalmer:
Advice from experience remembered watching the watch
Posted 05/23/2024 01:15 PM
cork:
Where have all my watches gone?
Posted 05/23/2024 09:14 AM
maryricketson311@hotmail:
I like this timely poem. I need to be reminded to be conscious of what I do with time.
Posted 05/23/2024 09:03 AM
Darrell Arnold:
"An idle mind is the devil's workshop," comes to mind in reading this. I can see this young man, and perhaps a friend or two, having caused a little mischief, and this gift watch, and the poem with it, will be a reminder for him to spend his time in positive ways. Simple and profound.
Posted 05/23/2024 08:17 AM
Larry Schug:
Still pertinent today.
Posted 05/23/2024 08:16 AM


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