This is a rhyme I wrote to my son, Charlie Boy when he was 25 years old and having trouble with drugs. He died of an overdose when he was 34 years old. He was a nice kid, but he just could not get off the drugs. I sent him many rhymes over the years to try to help. Some helped for awhile, but none had that lasting affect. He filled a large church when he died and there were many great stories of the nice things he did for other people. This was an early rhyme where I’m writing in Charlie Boy’s words.
Chemical Dependency!
I’m not like the rest – I can quit any time
I don’t need to use – I’ll just stop on a dime
Now these other folks – It’s so plain to see
They’ve got a real problem – But they’re not like me
I’ve heard what you’ve said – I believe every word
When I go out with my friends – I won’t drink, rest assured
Hey! You know it ain’t easy – But I know who I am
I’ll go to my meetings – Now that ain’t no scam
I’ll live with my mother – Where I’ve been all my life
Of course I’ll move out – When I marry and get a wife
Right now I’m getting a dog – A puppy if you will
He’ll keep my mind off of drinking – I’ve got too much time to kill
A job! I don’t think so – The pays way too low
Look at me, will you – Do I look that slow
I got straight “A”s in grade school – Although high school is a fog
I don’t think I liked it – I need a memory jog
Hey listen here buddy – I’m in charge of my life
I come and go as I want to – And don’t worry about strife
Rent, I ain’t paying – Or I might have to drink
Get me a nice paying job – Where I won’t have to think
You know I’m no dummy – I’m really doing okay
What are you all pissed off about – Are you having a bad day
Don’t blame me for your hard luck – I’m just trying to get by
My parents got divorced – If I’m screwed up, that’s why
Now that we’re on the subject – Ya, sometimes I need a drink
It helps to calm my nerves – So I really can think
Some day you’ll be surprised – When I’m rich and own my own car
You’ll see I didn’t need treatment – And I’m successful like a rising star!!