Vital Signs

To E.M.T.’s a vital sign

Is something they can measure –

Your pressure, pulse rate, temperature –

Not data we can treasure.

 

But I would add one to the list

That I believe’s worthwhile;

To me, the most important sign

Has got to be the smile.

 

For when we’re feeling happy –

With no sickness, grief or stress,

Our face reflects that knowledge

With a grin we can’t suppress.

 

It isn’t fair that joy is something

Life cannot entitle

Yet I would say it manifests

In signs that sure seem vital.