THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

“A Merry Christmas!” You who make each day

A little less unhappy for some soul

Weighted with sorrow; you who have been gay

For others’ sake — although you paid the toll

In the still watches of the weary night,

Fighting despair. You who have faced the world

With spirit and put cowardice to flight;

You, with your rugged banner still unfurled —

“A Merry Christmas!” For in you I see

The Vision of the Man that I would be!

“A Merry Christmas!” Through the winter chill,

The singing spring — hot summer and drear fall,

You go your way, seeking for good, not ill,

Remembering life's joy and not its gall;

Clasping the hand that trembles, when you may,

Spending your love whole-heartedly the while

For those who need it now, nor wait that day

When they no longer care for word or smile.

Doing your part with all sincerity —

A Vision of the Man that I would be!