Farina

When I was young, on winter days

If it was really cold,

My mother made farina

(Which is healthy, I am told).

 

The bowl, when placed in front of me,

Was steaming hot and full

And likely many people

Would be tempted by its pull.

 

But I was not among them,

For each spoonful was a chore.

I ate until I hit a lump

And then would eat no more.

 

I still won’t try farina,

Oatmeal, porridge or the like.

If those were all my choices,

I’d begin a hunger strike.

 

My breakfast needs a bagel

Or a muffin or some cake.

A bowl of something mushy

Served to me? A huge mistake!