"Life's great lesson"

It is said that by living you learn from life's great lessons

But so far none of what I've learnt is fair

Everything I try to do right

I get insulted for my efforts

It doesn't seem to matter that I was trying to be considerate

Respectful to myself and others around me

If I say 'Please' or 'May I' or 'Thank you'

I'm laughed at for being old-fashioned

It doesn't seem to matter that I'm trying to be modest

Trying to keep myself mine; and mine alone

But if I don't flaunt myself in low-cut t-shirts and mini-shorts

I'm called oppressed and ugly

It doesn't seem to matter that I'm trying to be responsible

Trying to keep someone from acting stupid

If I don't join in and act like an idiot

I'm teased for being a chicken and a coward

It doesn't seem to matter that I'm trying to shape my future

Trying to get the most out of life

If I stay home to study or do well in class

I'm bullied for being a 'nerd' and 'know-it-all'

It doesn't seem to matter that I'm trying to be kind

By helping the dyslectic kid at school

If I explained something to her, or told her an eleusive answer

I was abandoned by my friends for being a 'softie'

It doesn't seem to matter that I'm trying to be merciful

Forgiving those who have offended me

If I smiled kindly and told them 'don't worry about it'

I'm met with sarcasm, mockery and scorn

It doesn't seem to matter what I do

Society dictates otherwise

Kindness, mercy, modesty and true friendship don't exist

In its place rule peer pressure, popularity and anarchy