IN CHARGE

They've got the look, the stance, the tone, but not the competence

To carry out the job that should be done

They scheme and lie; manipulate; devoid of tact or grace

And make a mess of things for everyone 

They always want to run the show, but they don't know a lot

They seek the glamor, but they shun the chores

Everything is about them, including stuff that's not

All things work-related, are a bore 

It's so important to be seen, but when it comes to facts

They suddenly go mute, and start to sweat

They haven't done their homework, but they put on quite an act

And when exposed, they rush off with regret

So busy dogging those who know; competing with the skilled

They never really grasp the gravity

Of the result of one wrong move; one thoughtless, hasty plan

But they're "in charge" so they don't see the need

To be present each day and work--not just talk a good game

Not just show up for photo-ops so they

Can fool the world about what their involvement really is

But when it counts, they don't know what to say 

They screw up royally, and then, have the nerve to ask

Of the people that they screwed, "What shall we do?"

"Wait. Aren't you in charge?" the people ask in disbelief

Shouldn't you be telling us where to go to?

You said you had authority, so we're waiting on you!

Why are you asking us what you should know?

Had you not hurt and so maligned those who actually knew

We'd be sure now, what to do and where to go!"

Attention seeking, envy, self-absorption are always

An unhealthy mix when things demand

That one's own needs and wants be exchanged for the greater good-- 

A concept that some folk don't understand 

Not everyone can be in charge, but somewhere many learned

That following and helping is beneath

Their dignity, and so they reach for reigns they can't control--

Just to say they have authority 

"Sorry" never quite  repairs the blunders that they make
They're much too arrogant to just concede
That if they'd only asked of those who knew the path to take
They'd then display the traits of those who lead

There's nothing wrong with deferring to those who've put in time

To those whose skill and faithfulness have shown

That staying in your lane; helping; not trying to undermine

Ensures success for all, not just your own 

vrw2017