[struggle]

I married at 26 to my best friend. She is still my best friend, thought we were born in different countries and speak different languages.

I can’t see what the problem with everyone else is. You make your life a paradise or a hell.

[50sDad]

Rituals

"I'm not so very old", she said
"I just turned 28,
But boy it's been a long, long time
Since I've been on a date.
I mean like a dinner, and a movie,
A good night kiss at the door"
We are not content with kisses anymore.

My Grama told me stories
How she and Grampa met,
How their courtship followed local rules of etiquette.
The flowers that he brought her
The dresses that she wore.
We are not impressed with such ritual any more.

My father met my mother through a mutual friend
They knew each other for two months before they ever kissed
And when the did they were embarrassed and just a little scared
By this awkward declaration that they cared.

But now we rush into everything so fast.
Love that's here so quickly
Soon becomes a part of the past
It never works out right
'Cause nothing everlasting ever happens overnight.

So if you think you love her, take your time
Walk her in the moonlight
Maybe even try to write a line or two of poetry
Or perhaps a song.
You might find you're building
A love that's going to last a long, long time.

Take you time, Oh take your time
There is something to be said for rituals we've left behind
There is something to be said for the dance
back to old-fashioned romance.

Words and Music by Christine Lavin/Flip-A-Jig
Music ASCAP & Happy Valley Music BMI
Copyright 1986, Palindrome Records, Philo

[ctdonath2]

Thing is: it takes two. You can do your part, but you can’t make the other do theirs.