Happiness

“What is it?” She asked “What is what?” He replied “What is happiness?” She demanded “Hmm,” he mumbled, as his voice slowly died “Is it having a lot of friends So that you’re never alone? Or is it being comfortable by yourself So that true loneliness is never known?” “Why are you asking?” The happy old man inquired But the little girl pushed on For the answer she desired “Is it being exceptionally beautiful So that I’m what all the boys wish to acquire? Or is it being extremely diligent So that I can achieve any goal of which I desire?” “But why are you asking?” The happy old man repeated “Just answer my questions!” The little girl pleaded “Is it being rich and famous So people dream of being me? Or is it being modest and humble So that I never endure envy?” “But why do you worry?” The happy old man queried “It’s important to me!” The little girl parried “Is it getting good grades So that I can get into Harvard? Or is it playing lots of sports So that I won’t be a nerd?” “But why do you ask?” The happy man investigated “Just answer my questions!” The vexed girl reiterated “Is it having sexual relations With an attractive boy? Or is it having an emotional connection Full of love, friendship and joy?” “Listen” The happy old man gently said “Put on your pajamas And just go to bed” “But you haven’t answered my questions!” The little girl yelled furiously To which the old man replied “Let me finish, and you’ll see” “Wake up in the morning And go about your day But never forget to be kind to others Even if it means going out of your way Furthermore, have empathy For you are unaware of the struggles of others So treat each person As if you were sisters or brothers Finally, Love people incessantly This, my child, I promise Will make you truly happy”