Christmastide Poem by Jonathan H. Scott

The winter solstice marks the time of year
When soon will be the days of Christmastide—
With family, friends and loved ones gathered near;
When faith and hope and charity abide.

Since times long passed, expectancy's been held
For but a glint of understanding truth.
Though, even now, with fantasy dispelled,
St. Nick still reaches well beyond one's youth.

With silver bells a'tinkling on the sleigh,
Young lovers on the lake skate hand-in-hand;
Anticipation rises through the day,
As gently falls the snow across the land.

‘tis known not when the visitation comes—
Nor how, nor what might be its present form;
The Christmas tree is trimmed, and sugar plums
Are eaten by a winter's fire warm.

Such merriment abounds throughout the house
In celebration of the season's joy—
The dog and cat, and e'en the lowly mouse,
Hope for a gift of cheese or some small toy.

Then, after all the carolers have sung
The hymns "O Holy Night" and "We Three Kings, "
The silence of the night is then begun;
So, off to bed to dream of Christmas things.

But in the dark and quiet of the night,
Epiphany! One's destiny is sealed—
Outside, a star in heaven shines so bright.
‘tis when the truth of Christmas is revealed.