A Dove with Attitude

Presented at a meeting of the Rotary Club of Dallas, July 21, 2004An illustration of a dove with its wings bent so it looks as if it's standing with its hands on its hips


Lately, I’ve had second thoughts
About doves and hawks.

I wonder what justifies the magnitude
Of the typical hawkish attitude.

Are hawks the magnificent seven
With the keys to central banker heaven?

Can't doves put their wing tips
     on their hips
And also shoot from the lip?

And give hawks the evil eye
As they fly high in the sky?

I don't want hawkish platitudes;
I greatly prefer a dove with attitude.