Mum and Dad

They tuck you up, your Mum and Dad

They read you Peter Rabbit, too.

They give you all the treats they had.

And add some extra, just for you.

They were tucked up when they were small,

(Pink perfume, blue tobacco-smoke),

By those whose kiss healed any fall,

Whose laughter doubled any joke.

Man hands on happiness to man,

It deepens like a coastal shelf.

So love your parents all you can

And have some cheerful kids yourself.

ADRIAN MITCHELL