Well at least they got engaged in my imagination. But first they need a little pre-marriage counseling to make sure they’re compatible and each understands what their expectations are from a marriage partner. Let’s listen in, shall we?
Therapist: Hello you two famous celebrities!
Neil: Hello my friend, hello.
Barbra: What’s up Doc?
Therapist: Oh please, I don’t have a PhD in psychology, so just use my first name. It’s Caroline.
Neil: Sweet!
Barbra: Hmph. Obviously you’re not a big fan of my films? What’s Up Doc? Ryan O’Neil. Four plaid suitcases get mixed up?
Therapist: Before my time. But I don’t mean to rain on your parade. I’m sorry if I said something I shouldn’t have.
Neil: No one heard at all, not even the chair. If you know what I mean?
Therapist: Well, suffice it to say I’m a big fan of your voice, Barbra.
Neil: It’s a beautiful noise. And it’s a sound that I love.
Therapist: Well that’s a great start! So what can I help both of you with today?
Neil: She hardly talks to me anymore when I come through the door at the end of the day.
Therapist: Oh. Is that all? Well maybe she hasn’t gotten over the fact that you don’t bring her flowers anymore.
Barbra: And roses aren’t that expensive.
Neil: Money talks but it don’t sing and dance and it don’t walk.
Therapist: Let’s try a different tact. How did you two first meet?
Neil: Where it began? I can’t begin to knowing. But then I know it’s growing strong.
Barbra: Isn’t he annoying? Actually we originally met in high school choir. True story!
Neil: She was such a Funny Girl. But I told her, “Girl, you’ll be a woman soon.”
Therapist: So now she’s a Funny Lady?
Barbra: Honestly I don’t know what my age has to do with anything. The underlying issue here is that I’m not quite sure Neil is ready to settle down. And leave all those other females out of his refrains, ya know?
Therapist: There are others?
Barbra: Well for starters there’s that hussy from the Bluegrass state.
Neil: Ahhh, Kentucky Woman. God knows I love her.
Barbra: See that? And Cherry, cherry. And don’t forget about Cracklin’ Rosie.
Therapist: Cracklin’ — Sounds like a cereal.
Neil: No, but she was a store bought woman.
Barbra: And then there was that Shilo.
Therapist: Now I always thought Shiloh was his dog. Neil? Your input.
Neil: Shilo was when I was young. I used to call her name. But honestly I don’t recall much.
Therapist: What’s too painful to remember, we simply choose to forget.
Barbra: Thank you. And something else that bothers me. He starred in The Jazz Singer and could’ve easily suggested that I audition for his leading lady instead of Lucy Arnaz.
Neil: I Love Lucy.
Barbra: Well that depresses me too.
Neil: Me and you are subject to the blues now and then….
Therapist: I think the most important question is… can you both be your true selves with each other?
Neil: I’ll be what I am. Solitary man.
Barbra: He’s always proclaiming his identity. “I am, I said!” He shouts around the house.
Therapist: Barbra. I’d like you to make some physical contact with Neil right now. Then look into his eyes and tell him how you’re feeling.
Neil: Yeah, hands touchin’ hands. Reachin’ out, touching me….touching you.
Therapist: You can do it, Babs.
Barbra: (hesitatingly extends forearm) Hold my hand and we’re half-way there. Hold my hand and I’ll take you there. Somehow, some day, somewhere.
Therapist: That’s very good progress this week, folks. But I’d like to see you for another session.
Neil/Barbra: Do we really even need you anymore?
Therapist: People. People who need people….are the luckiest people!
You may hate me here, but please “Like” me on Facebook for all my latest updates. Click HERE
Once Upon Your Prime 