Christmas Day

Christmas day

and all the children smiled,

amidst the presents piled.

Old and young sat round the fire

though late last night did Santa tire.

And hearts were cheered with yearly grace

that slows us in our lifelong haste.

Children compared their new given gifts,

introduction to the art of giving.

Seeking most to go out and play

on a new bought Christmas sleigh.

The young faces gleamed

with that joy that for a moment seemed,

to lift the very souls round,

gathered to a future glory yet unseen.

(Copright 1996 Matthew Ward Tippett)