Once Upon the Holidays

When once we imagine spirit through eyes

of a child, we know love, we know delight

we can laugh and cry and never ask why

while love be beauty’s certain guide of light.

When once we wake to curiosity

life speculates the truth of childhood

younger people react with sanctity

that so much of their hopes be understood.

When once we breathe hot summer’s burdened age

where notions of confusion settle strong

to intermingle with that quiet rage

when naivete seems nigh to belong

When then in holiday we will reflect

is love, in value, oft as imperfect.