Now listen,
Lest you want to be lonely
– without friends,
– without family.
Don’t let your mouth run dry
and waste your neighbour’s water.
Water ain’t cheap.
They might send you the bill
at the end of the month.
Don’t say things you don’t mean
when you’re mad or disappointed.
You might hurt someone’s feelings
even without knowing.
Count your words
in any circumstance.
They are not completely harmless.
– don’t criticize
– don’t lie
– don’t curse
– don’t accuse falsely
– don’t gossip
Don’t say another word,
unless you’re sure
what the outcome will be.
Your income may not be enough
to fit the bill.
Don’t speak out of resentment
or fear.
Your facial expressions
should earn you some points.
But most importantly,
don’t say I didn’t tell you
this today.
You might regret things later.