Poems (Howard)/Christmas
For works with similar titles, see Christmas.
Christmas.
We reveled in the joy of December's greatest boon; Fair, sunny skies, as cloudless And radiant as June.
Like healing balm, the sunshine Poured out its softest rays; While lengthened bits of twilight Eked out the shortened days.
Anon, a transformation, Revealed by morning light—And all the earth is covered With robes of dazzling white.
We doubt no more that winter, That seemed so far away, Uncertain, long-delaying, Has come, and come to stay.
The tender benediction That crowns the dying year, In every heart accords with A thought of Christmas cheer.
An ancient custom lighted The glowing "yule-log" fire—Tis ours to add the beauty Of holiday attire.
Through gorgeous windows peering On gayest festal scenes, The urchin ponders over His slender stock of means.
In huge bazaars, resplendent With treasures rich and gay,Mammas select the presents For which papas must pay.
Each home a rich museum, Aladdin's palace is; Its hidden wealth provoking Untold anxieties.
'Tis said, "It is more blessed To give, than to receive!"O let us prove the maxim, And know what we believe!
"The poor are with you always!" He wins a diadem Who, of his Christmas largesse, Reserves a share for them.