Rik George writes

Childhood Rules

The old ones gave me childhood rules 
that still compel my obedience: 
“Brine draws the bitter from cucumbers.” 
“Don’t sit in drafts if your feet are wet.” 
“Vinegar seasons beans and spinach.” 
“Salt tomatoes, sugar cherries.” 
“Hot cookies burn the tongue and fingers.” 
“Do your chores before you play.” 
“Children should sleep when chickens do.” 
“Scorch the flour for pot roast gravy.” 
“Wash your ears and elbows twice.” 
“Tiptoe when a cake is baking.” 
“Wash both the front and back of the plate.” 
“When you sleep in strange beds, wear pajamas.”