A young man asked me, as if to task me
From where I derived my calm attitude.
I smiled so gently and shared contently
“From awareness, kindness and gratitude.”

He seemed perplexed and a little bit vexed
And asked if this was just platitude.
I smiled again and told my young friend
“Just awareness, kindness and gratitude.”

I extended my hand, to this puzzled young man
Knowing youth often grows through great latitude.
Then he gently smiled and his gaze turned mild
With awareness, kindness and gratitude.