The First Poem I ever Wrote (it took 30 minutes and has never been edited)

“Grade Your Own Paper”

You left your sweet home with your Father above,

To experience this world, armed with his love.

You'll return and report to your all knowing maker,

But up until then, you "grade your own paper."

On Sunday to Church to listen and speak,

But what do you do the rest of the week.

How you live out each day is life's greatest test,

Are you humble and meek, or think you're the best?

"Do as I say" are the words of a fool,

Teach with your actions, they're life's natural tool.

In the confines of home our loved ones will see,

By the things said and done, the real you and me.

Dust off your scriptures, to Church with great speed,

But a chapter a day, do you take time to read?

The answer's provided for every occasion,

Ponder each verse to seek your salvation.

"Do unto others," words from the pulpit,

But do power and greed make you a culprit?

Are you fair in your dealings, through good or bad breaks?

Or does fairness start suffering the higher the stakes?

Live the commandments, they apply to us all,

But in your own life, do you follow them all?

Thou shalt not steal, that we all know,

Yet your twelve-year-old child is ten at the show?

You're a full tither, one tenth of your pay,

But will you give back one tenth of your day?

Money's no problem, you're doing quite fine,

"Here's a big check, just don't take my time."

Who are you fooling, parents, husband or wife?

Your Heavenly Father knows your true life.

At the end of your journey you're judged by your maker,

But up until then, you "grade your own paper."

Ted D. Nelson @ 1989