“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!