“You must taste your words before you speak”
She said, with the sweetest smile
Always consider the feelings of those around you
Let them rest on your tongue awhile

Do not be so quick to claim your bitter offenses
When others behave annoyingly  
The truth is, you may be being too sensitive
She said, looking straight at me

There are some who are forceful and opinionated
With powerfully strong personalities
Do not ever let them mistreat you, protect yourself
Using your wisdom of tact, gracefully

Some will walk the line between being assertive
And overstepping their bounds
If you will deal with them using your softest nature
The rewards you reap are better, I’ve found


*For Linda