Cedar Tree Christmas Poem by Barry Middleton

We never purchased a Christmas tree,
where I was raised they were always free.
Down the valley in Cooper's cove,
grew the perfect tree in a cedar grove.

We always scouted far in advance,
and searched across a great expanse
to find the perfect shape and size,
a Christmas tree that we could prize.

We'd need a hatchet and a saw
to cut the tree without a flaw.
We'd need a crew, not just one boy,
to get it home for all to enjoy.

There was often a very long way to go
through frost or mist or even snow
as we dragged the trophy to the farm
then dressed it up in Christmas charm.

All the work was well worth while
and ransomed by a childlike smile,
on Christmas day with gifts and glee
beneath our priceless Christmas tree.

There was perhaps a lesson learned,
that joy is something to be earned,
that can't be had in commercial ways
and once you learn it, the lesson stays.