Duncan, I must extend thanks,
For explaining “Strine” to us Yanks.
I hope this won’t cause you anguish,
Strine rhymes like that odd Cockney English!
For they say they’ve been rhyming their slang,
Starting shortly after the Big Bang!
To you all: I don’t mean to sound mushy,
supercilious, sanctimonious, or gushy.
There’s too much I never have learned,
And by scholars I’m frequently spurned!
But there’s one thing I know full well
I'm quite thankful for TFL.
On each forum there is many a thread,
Discussing live people and dead.
And unfortunately sometimes we flame,
On our friends and others by name.
Do my efforts apply here? YOU measure.
I’m presenting this just for your pleasure.
---------------------------------------------
In keeping with our jest-like tones,
And avoiding antagonistic groans,
I called in my daughter Vicky,
And said, “Try reading this, it is tricky,
A lot must be based upon phonics.”
Said she, “No, it’s Australian ebonics!”
Let’s remember that as every nation,
Strives for communication,
Both within its borders and without,
Good will prevents many a pout.
But even in the best of times;
Our effort seldom rhymes.
Perhaps we’d be better off
If our smart aleck hats we doff
And with patience and good will
Prove to each other still,
That in each land from pole to pole,
Good will should be our goal.
Though we have different views of history,
(How they all could be true is a mystery),
And although we must learn from the past,
If humanity is to last.
We should stress less our disparities,
And acknowledge more our similarities.
Our Right to Life, Liberty, and Happiness,
(If we find it in our mad, worldly mess)
Will NOT come from cruel and snide inferences,
Or lack of respect for our differences.
We’ll all live happily and longer,
Be wealthier, healthier and stronger
If we just quit picking at each other,
And remember we are sister and brother.
