42, R&M Options

[Guest_bombadil1247_*]

42

When people question their existence
or ponder meaning in their life
I shake my head at their persistence
and thank the lord for you, dear wife.

I’ve never doubted my life’s meaning
since first we danced across the floor
to Frank Sinatra softly crooning
that Strangers could be so much more.

A rock to shield me from life’s sorrows,
a pillow cushioning each blow,
a promise of such bright tomorrows
and darling friend I’ve grown to know.

When Death drops by to call my number
I’ll go along with no regret
you gave me all a man could yearn for;
I bless the day and hour we met.

If God so wills it I’ll be waiting
to greet you when you come along
then once again we’ll go out dating
our love affair will carry on.

[heartsong7]

Beautifully stated sentiments without seeming overly sentimental.
Every line is a delight to read and the whole flows flawlessly to my ear.
I didn't get the significance of the title either till I read Alan's explanation.
I was thinking it represented how long you are married.

There are a few meter variations like:
"I’ve never doubted my life’s meaning"
which if it were standing alone one might scan as
I’ve nev er doubt ed my life’s mean ing
but it appears far enough down into the poem to encourage the reader to go with:
I’ve nev er doubt ed my life’s mean ing
wherein that stress falling on 'my' becomes very effective.

lovely poem.
Sue