The Genie of Childhood

The first messenger suggested
"Let childhood be good - so good, in fact,
that they sorrow ever after, sighing for
the strong embrace, the safe room, the approving look.
Let its absence flavor the rest of life with gall.
That is my plan."

The second messenger suggested
"Let childhood be bad - so bad, in fact,
that they sorrow ever after, seeking to escape
the strong grip, the locked door, the contemptuous glance.
Let its existence favor the rest of life with gall.
That is my plan."

And the Genie of Childhood
smiled, looking from one to the other,
as tears began to roll down
his plump pink cheeks; as he laughed,
"So be it. So be it."