Neighbours were friends
Priests were trustworthy
Cops were straight
Politicians genuine
And
Teachers taught the three R’s
I remember when
Kids got whacked for misbehaving
Hoons never existed
We gave our seat up for the old
And called them Mr or Mrs
We had respect for all
Waited in line
Helped little kids
And old folk cross the road
We never littered
I loved it when
We sat around the table at meal time
With family
We never spoke when someone else held court
We helped Mum and Dad
Without complaint
Never expecting reward
I wish again
The local Police Sergeant had respect
The teacher was revered
Father Patrick was feared
And
Parents ruled
Yep, I remember when
Sense prevailed