a tribute, written in verse
“The joy of children laughing around you — these are the makings of you.”
Every line is a small offering — sugar, honeysuckle, a dozen roses — trying to put a feeling into words that almost don’t reach far enough.
Add a little sugar, honeysuckle and
A great, big expression of happiness
Boy, you couldn’t miss with a dozen roses
Such would astound you
The joy of children laughing around you
These are the makings of you
It is true, the makings of you
The righteous way to go
Little one would know
Or believe if I told them so
You’re second to none
The love of all mankind
Should reflect some sign
Of these words I’ve tried to recite
They are close, but not quite
Almost impossible to do
Reciting the makings of you
Underneath every verse is a quiet truth about the woman it was written for.
You have the ability to bring joy and happiness to those around you.
The joy of children. If you had more kids they’d love you more. But bet you considered the best Auntie ever!
The young ones in your family know it to be true — you are second to none.
The innocence in children causes them to see and understand the truth.
Who is the love of all mankind? Who is celebrated the most?
Most mothers are.
The song that started it all.
The Makings of You
Curtis Mayfield
Press play above to stream the song.