FOR VIVIAN

I am laden with principles

Delicately balanced like bicycles

It’s unethical for me to lick popsicles

While driving one of my work vehicles

I could meet a friend and pitch a tent

But it is hard to do so with a student

To avoid giving myself a dent

Or getting my principles bent

But this friend was a different same

So full of life; her smile’s like a flame

Friendship, nothing more was her aim

Relating to her was anything but lame

Unique in her swinging moods

She laughs more than she broods

She’s sound, not a product of the hoods

A better breed of the neighborhood

This New Year is a time to celebrate

From good to better you’ll migrate

And though some things may seem late

I know you will surely be great