The Bettys and the Susans
and the Jerrys and the Bills
grew up inside the perfect town
and roamed around the hills.

There was no fear in that small
place When Betty walked to town.
And Billy gave her one quick look
then his eyes moved toward the ground.

Susan’s parents were at the church
whenever the big doors opened.
Jerry’s mother played bridge with the girls
with laughter talking and joking.

The Bettys and the Susans
and the Jerrys and the Bills
went off to college or off to jobs
then off to the slaughter and kill.

War protesters and “free love rates!”
and naked in the streets.
Some of the Bettys and Jerrys and Bills
were hip with the hippie life beat.

The boys came home, tattered and torn
and lost in their tormented minds.
But they went on with their lives and had
Jennifers, Jessicas and Brians.

Jennifer, Jessica, Brian and Jason
Were left to fend for themselves.
Latchkey kids who watched TV
while their their parents egos were fed.

Susans worked, independence felt good
and parties after work were the norm.
Divorces were rampant with self-exploration.
Support groups, retreats were formed.

Jennifers and Michaels, Heathers and Brians,
confused by blended families
didn’t know daddy from day to day.
Some were raised by maids and nannys.

Michael and Heather decided to change
the pattern their parents put before them.
They’re marrying for keeps and family
and having Madeline, Zachary and Benjamin.

Brandon and Justin and Benjamin and Grace,
please be the ones to endure.
Give this land a peace and a love and
a place in this world for the poor.

Save us, Benjamin, save us Grace.
Strong names to carry you through.
Respect yourselves and your fellow man
Let the Lord God reign down on you.