A friend remarked that she couldn't see the humor in an experience that is common to us all {and yes, has its unpleasant side). But humor -- true humor -- is the other side of tragedy. We laugh to keep from crying. Or screaming. Or tearing our hair. Or 'all of above and below.' For good or ill, laughter is more acceptable. Besides, it is fun. Comedians say they kill. What-a-way-t'-go. Hope you see the humor in this ditty. Shorta keelin' over ...s m i l e.

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        Voice Lesson I can do Without
 
Shouldas and Oughtas won't let me be.
ShouldaShouldaShouldaOughtaOughtaOughta.
I mean, cheez.   How many  can there be?
Tellya, 'ere's a passel more'n I thoughta.
 
Every Shoulda has a buncha IFs 'n Ands 'n' Buts.
Every Oughta has more.   Bless me if I know why.
If-only 'iss, if-only 'at.   Hasslin' me int' a dadblang rut.
Nobody's perfect, I say.  (Quick someone, say Right.).
 
Too late to make amends,  too soon t'cash in m'chips.
What is done is done,  what ain't clearly ain't.
Ship sailed, seeya, b'byyyee.  –What other ship???
Jus'  an ord'nar'  cuss under iss  padder 'n paint!
 
Awiiiiiiiight.  I will try to do better, I will, I will.
Please Shouldas, Please Oughtas, button the _**_ up.
Likker bites, needle, nuh-uh, bound t'get hooked on pills.
Torture some other poor. . .no, shutupshutupshutUP.
 
Now that my fit has passed, I'm fit as yer av'rage fiddle.
The Voices 're down to an unmusical hum.
Take my advice and try not to listen even a little
To every nag nags in the backa yer head.  's'duh.

 

(c)  Phyllis Jean Green,  May,  2006