THE KEY TO LONGEVITY

One upon a time a visitor at the seashore
Met ten centenarians still going strong.
In all sincerity he made a bow:
"Pray, how have you managed to live so long?"

Stroking his beard the first man replied,
"I've never touched liquor in all my life."

"I walk a hundred steps after each meal,"
The second graybeard rejoined with a smile.

Nodding in agreement, the third chimed in,
"I eat only vegetables and the simplest fare."

"I travel by foot instead of by wheel,"
Said the fourth, leaning on his cane.

The fifth added, flourishing the sleeves of his robe,
"I do my laundry and all other chores with my own hands."

Demonstrating a exercise form, the sixth explained,
"I do the fitness exercise every day."

Rubbing his nose the seventh observed,
"Keep the windows open and let the fresh air in."

The eighth, rosy-cheeked, remarked,
"I get a tan from the summer sun."

Twisting his mustache, the ninth stressed,
"Early to bed and early to rise."

The last gentleman concluded, raising his eyebrows.
"I'm as merry as the day is long."

Always remember these old men's words,
for there's much truth in their song.
Do precisely as these men do,
If you want your days to be long.