What Is It They Always Say?

What is it they always say?

A stitch in time saves nine?

When we buy fast fashion 

cheaper than cotton?

What is it they always say? 

A bird in the hand is worth more than two in the bush? 

If the birds are busy 

why would I stick my hand in there?

What is it they always say? 

The needs of many outweigh the needs of one?

Is that why we call war 

The greater good?

What is it they always say?

No man is an island? 

Then why do we 

isolate and victimise? 

What is it they always say?

Curiosity killed the cat?

Funny how 

it never seems to kill ignorance.

What is it they always say?

Sticks and stones may break my bones?

But why do words linger 

longer than the broken bones?

What is it they always say? 

I don't intend to offend?

Then punch down 

with all your weight

What is it they always say?

It's just a joke?

Then why does the laughter 

cut like a bread knife?

What is it they always say?

I'm not racist, but?

Funny how that but remembers 

what the rest forgot 

What is it they always say?

I believe in equality?

Just not your equality 

What is it they always say?

Respect your elders?

Is that why we mistake age for wisdom?

What is it they always say?

Always look for a policeman?

Unless no-one believes you anyway

What is it they always say?

Stranger danger, stranger danger

When the relative or family friend 

is having their wicked way with the innocent?

What is it they always say? 

Blood is thicker than water?

Is that why it hurts more 

when family turns against you? 

What is it they always say?

Boys don't cry?

Is that why I am standing on the top of a bridge?