Once upon some decades ago I can remember sitting outside of the principal’s office contemplating my fate. Being a stubborn learner, occasions like these were far too frequent for my parent’s liking. While most adults might think that young Bob was reflecting upon necessary change – this might not be entirely true. Eventually lessons were learned, but not necessarily in a linear fashion.

Hopefully, the poem Wrinkled Kids can bring a smile to your face. Even though adults have acquired additional responsibilities, that come from time and caring for young people, they might benefit from a little reflection. As for those who never sat outside the principal’s office, I am sure you can relate to other times when the kids just did not listen. Somehow, for most young people, lessons get learned. Enjoy being a wrinkled kid.

Wrinkled Kids

One went for a coffee

Then wound up being late

The other they were vaping

Skipping a class most kids hate

Now both sit there waiting

Outside the Vice Principal’s door

Anticipating after school detention

Or perhaps a little more

Soon came a conversation

From two so unalike

Both appearing somewhat nervous

Decided to take a hike

No one seemed to notice

As they sashayed down the hall

Heading towards rebellion

And feeling ten feet tall

This moment’s insurrection

Anathema for a school

Next led to deep reflection

Of adults and their rules

And from youth’s perspective

Comes a poignant grain

Adults while often caring

Did things bordering on insane

They huddle in the office

Whisper late at night

Adults they always exhort us

To do what is right

At times most are forgetting

Those things they once did

For after all is said and done

They’re simply wrinkled kids

One was thinking about college

At least that’s what they thought

The other to endure the day

Until finally getting caught

Now both together

Enjoyed a brief escape

Thanks to Felicia’s

And a sneaky vape

Upon cursory reflection

It was ever clear

Our recalcitrant interlocutors

Found each other’s ears

Sure there would be penance

And necessary change

But a great lesson came about

From this moment strange

Inevitably entered the authority

With a beckoning glance

Acknowledging that this excursion

Never stood a chance

Three now headed office bound

Sharing an ironic fate

All had much in common

Save experience and birthdate

They huddle in the office

Whisper late at night

Adults they always exhort us

To do what is right

At times most are forgetting

Those things they once did

For after all is said and done

They’re simply wrinkled kids

Skipping class and vaping are certainly not good choices for kids. Rules, boundaries, and expectations are necessary to help young people channel their talents. But, how are these conveyed by the adults? How do we relate to the wonderful and confusing journey children/teens encounter? That is where wisdom gained through your experiences comes in. Perhaps a trip down our own memory lane might help.

Robert Houghtaling is the Director, Substance Abuse Prevention/Mental Health for the Town of East Greenwich.