If I ran the zoo
Here’s what I’d do
I’d guide all the animals clearly
From the beginning
So they could just follow through
Everyone in the zoo
Would be treated the same,
Regardless of politics, species, or name
We’d know that each one of the animals had their expertise and their place
And we’d treat them all with respect, appreciation and grace
We’d find out their talents
We’d help each one succeed,
We’d streamline the process and make it easy to get what you need
And if an animal was showing an inspiring face
And wanted to lead now or set a new pace
Manage some of the new species that lived at the zoo
Cause they were darn good at it, and could be an asset to you
The zookeepers would notice and say loud and clear
“Here’s your own car to drive we know you can steer!”
And if we didn’t know just what they need
Or what kind of food
or quite how to lead
Or what rattled their cage, or made them feel small
Or broke their heart in large pieces,
made them falter or fall
We’d gently approach them and sit by their side
And communicate closely till we could all turn the tide
The zookeepers would be patient
Consistent and clear
You’d have their attention and have nothing to fear
Their approach would be gentle, respectful and sane
As they strived to create a most peaceful domain
We’d inspire with a leadership style and do what we said
And when things didn’t quite work, there’d be no sense of dread
Cause we can make our mistakes
Like we all need to do
Sometimes run amuck, or not know what is true
These things happen quite frequently
When you live in the zoo
But everyone at the zoo works for praise and for doing their best
With more criticism than appreciation we all hide in our nests
Or feel like we can’t quite say what is true
And honestly get the tools to succeed that we need from you
But all of us know
That without taking a chance
Your energy falters, with nary a glance
You lose that special ‘ unique creature’ you are
And without that ‘omph’ of respect you don’t go very far
And because no one really wants to live in a cage
No matter how cozy, how popular or brave
The most important thing to remember each day
Is how we treat those who come by our way
Because each day here is a matter of choices you know
And it is so important to let ALL the little things go
To remember we are all one at the zoo
And kindness and laughter will help us all through
So before we close the gates at the zoo
Look around at the faces accompanying you
And don’t let the opportunity this afternoon pass you by
With the Lion’s and tigers and bears here, ‘oh my’
 
Now our time at the zoo has come to a close
And what you take away from this day
Only each of you knows
I hope you leave here and make the best choice
And let your talents always speak with a very large voice
I hope you will listen carefully to what you each have to say
To what is important and will make each of your day
And know that it is time you put old stories away
I hope that you have the courage to lead
With respect and great patience, which all of us need
Sometimes stand in front
And sometimes move aside
To let the best of each other help turn the tide
I hope you will remember to be joyful
And have fun
Cause no matter what anyone tells you
When you’re happy more good work gets done
I hope you give yourself the freedom to explore and to reach
And to be open to learn as much as you teach
I hope that you walk away from this day
With your feeling of value and nurture it, so it stays
And I thank you for being such great zoo visitors and coming on by
To visit the lions and tigers and bears here ‘oh-my!!!’
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