Nice: A Definition

“Today was a nice day,” a dear friend said to me
I replied, “What is the meaning of ‘nice'? Thousands of things it could be!”
He stared at me, a look of confusion sweeping across his face
“My comrade,” I said, “When we have such descriptive words, ‘nice' is such a waste!
How was your day ‘nice'? Was the weather sunny?
Did you ace your difficult math test? Was a joke you heard very funny?
Did it have you rolling on your stomach, and laughing while you cried?
Did it make your straight, white teeth sparkle bright as you smiled a grin so wide?
The breakfast you ate was delicious, was it? And school today wasn't a bore?”
“I get your point,” he said. I replied, “But ah! There is so much more!
Did you fall in love today? And was she the one you were dreaming of?
Was she what you expected or was it an unexpected love?
Did her eyes send chills down your spine? Does her smile make your heart skip a beat?
Having her close sends a warm feeling through you, doesn't it? Straight from your nose to feet?”
“Any more examples?” My friend's pupils rolled as he spoke sarcastically.
“Well, you'd have to be an idiot to think I'd come up with only two or three!
Did you compose a melody, one that brings tears to people's eyes?
Did you discover something new and are you now known among the wise?
Did you write a poem – one that everyone in the world will someday know?
Or did you travel to Paris, or Rome? Did you see all the places you've wanted to go?”
My friend replied, “I think I've learned my lesson now. I now know all the meanings of ‘nice'
And unless I wish to hear all this again, before I use it next time, I'll think twice!”