What Kind of World? (a poem)

I brought you forth
The first, then the second
I set you forward
and I try to guide you
to tread a softer path than my own

I watch you walk, and waddle
I tell you truths
and hope to fuel your future
But I worry what you will face
what we are leaving you
I doubt not the people you will become
but I fret for the people you will encounter
For where are we now?
And where are we likely to finish?

'Talent' shows get more votes than elections
'Who is better at the foxtrot?' is more important than 'Who has been lying in parliament?'
Online views hold more weight than charitable tasks accomplished
Truth is no longer an absolute
Fidelity no longer a virtue
Plastic is more popular than pride
Cars are attractive over charisma

The path ahead lies flood-strewn
and we're careening headlong towards chaos

And that, dear Philippa, is why 'no.3' is a No...

RC 8-3-24