From Where Comes the Music These Thoughts Bring Me

Is it the unrehearsed, instantaneous smile of a child in joy As it looks at you and likes the kindly smile in your eyes That you wish him well and the world is safe in your hands And by its innocence and its daring to be friends with you, You are inspired with the best of thoughts, the aura of a saint And the joy of being alive and open to the love of the world. Or is it the music of the olden times, the sad, pathetic whine Of a violin sonata reminding you of the age old pathos of life. The pride and passion, the laughter and total abandon of youth: The story of joys that never return and pains that take no leave: High above the rise and fall and rise again, hope eternal lives on. Or is it the color, the charm, the ennobling beauty of the rose That rises above thorns and conveys your love to your bride That, through the ups and downs of life, you will remain loyal To her and the children will come and bring you the still greater joys: Their innocent mischief shines and makes life worth living. Grateful thanks, and thanks again, for the beauty and glory of life!