Two Sides

In New York City, traffic lights
By walkers are ignored,
For getting someplace faster
Is the ultimate reward.

Except for little children –
Thus, the right way must be taught
And therefore, with confusion,
Situations might be fraught.

Today a dad was on the corner
With his kids in tow.
They crossed against the light because
The street looked good to go.

“But Dad,” the kids protested,
“Don’t you see the light is red?”
“When I’m with you, then it’s okay,”
Is what the father said.

“But never do this by yourself!”
Which surely contradicts
His children’s knowledge, sending them
A message clearly mixed.

An urban kid learns quickly
There are two sides to a coin
And often your companion
Lets you know which side to join.