The Tough Old Bird

She was up in her years and her hair was completely gray All she had was her memories which was quickly fading away. Life had taken its toll on her, and the years made her hunched backed. But she was a tough old woman, even after her heart attack. Children would gather around her, and she’d tell the Stories of days gone by-she would always get you To laugh, she didn’t even have to try. Memories of the 1920 s when gangsters ruled the streets Where people were afraid to walk, if there Wasn’t a cop on the beat. Yet with all the violence they had a grand old time. Speak easy clubs hidden in the dark alleys Where most would not dare to go But you could always find any type of gambling Drinking, or musical show. She had seen the great depression and every type of recession. Clothing styles changing all the time Food by the pound sold for a dime. Ice cream and fruit carts being pulled down the streets MY OH MY -what a wonderful treat. Then the 1st world war came, and she Wondered who was to blame. American men running to volunteer to fight for freedom- their lives they would share. She was around for every conflict and war And could write stories and books Of everything that she saw. But she was just happy to share her stories And jokes with the children who would gather around. They would listen to her and not make a sound. She loved to see the children s faces all aglow Every time she put on her show. She knew her life was close to the end And these children were her dearest friends. So she left a story for each one to tell And to this day, they do it very well.