WHAT IS LOVE?

The old man walked slowly down the street. This was the first time he had been outside for a walk in a long time. It was nice just to amble about and enjoy the familiarity of the old neighborhood.

"Hi, neighbor." Someone yelled from across the street. "What are you doing in this neck of the woods?"

With his failing eyesight the old man could not identify the caller. The voice sounded familiar, however. He crossed the street to investigate. It was his old pal and lifelong friend Bill.

The two old friends greeted each other with a warm handshake and began to catch up on things through an exchange of pleasantries. It was somewhat chilly and Bill suggested they go down to the local tavern for a drink. The old man had quit drinking many years ago, however in his loneliness for companionship he accepted the invitation.

As they sat down on the barstools, Bill ordered a round of drinks and they continued their conversation. The old man explained to his friend Bill that his wife had been ill for many years and his disappearance was caused by her constant need for care and he was the only one on whom she could depend. He explained that his wife had lost almost all memory and speech. She was beyond any normal comprehension or understanding and that she would continue her digression into oblivion.

The two men drank a toast and parted, promising to meet again sometime.

When the old man got home he thanked the kind lady who had taken care of his wife while he was out. When she had left he went into his wife’s room, took hold of her hand and even though he knew she might not understand, he told her about his outing.

"What is love?" an old friend asked.
I smiled as if I knew.
A friendly, smiling , knowing look
And all because of you.
I told him ‘bout the good times
We’d shared throughout the years
I told my friend what love is
As I brushed away the tears!

I told him ‘bout the pretty girl
I met on Peach Tree Street.
And you gently entered in
And made my life complete.
The loveliness of little things
You’d whisper in my ears
I told my friend what love is
As I brushed away the tears.

I told him ‘bout the home we built
And how we lost it all.
And how you stood right by my side
Dirt poor, but walking tall!
The way you’d hold me in the night
And calm my doubts and fears.
I told my friend what love is
As I brushed away the tears.

I brushed away those happy tears
And I could not help but smile.
For true love is eternal;
I must endure a little while.
My friend had kept his silence
Then he ordered two more beers
And drank a toast to the luckiest man
He’d seen in many years!

Yes, we drank a toast to the luckiest man
We’d seen in many years!