Happy Childhood Poem by Paul Reed

Funfairs, ferryboats, steam train rides,
To stand and admire the incessant tides,
Picnics, birthday cakes, midnight feasts,
To treasure that regarded the least;

Holidays, open fields, joyous spree,
Playing, hiding, climbing the tree
Each different season, each morning light
To feel warm and safe at night;

To be free, without fear or foe
To be strong, to develop, to grow,
Celebrate victory, endure defeat
To recognise that both make you complete;

To see the magic, compassion acquire,
To encourage, to nurture, to inspire,
Feel the rush of the truly great
To unshackle, to unbond, to liberate;

To learn to love, to live, to know
And the greatest thing I could bestow
Not wealth or power or purple blood
Just the gift of a happy childhood