The Young Within**

The Young Within 
When you see an old person hobbling alongDon't frown and then turn away.For inside that withered old bodyDwells a heart that's still young and gay.
You may see hair that's turned silverAnd age-spotted wrinkled old skinBut take a longer, deeper lookTo see the young person within.
A person who's known joy and happinessAnd perhaps has cried bitter tears.Who has shared times of youthful laughterAnd knowledge that has come with the years.
So don't laugh at them with derisionReach out and take them by the hand.For someday when at last time has touched youYou'll know the young inside and understand.
© Betty Lindsey 6th.June 2006
**Dedicated to my Mom who could not experience growing old.