On Children's Day...

They have stayed awake late
After having too much plum cake
Spotty skin, runny nose
They sure do keep you on your toes.

They've been scribbling on the walls
Interrupted your telephone calls 
Often driving you nuts 
 With their 'ifs' and 'buts.'

And yet 
You are there to banish their blues
And kiss away their boo - hoo - hoos.

You beam with pride
At hesitant step or furious stride
One so shy  another so bold
Each little treasure 
Is yours to have and to hold

No malice and hatred
To drive you wild
No guile, no violence 
Only sweet, sweet innocence. 

Thank you,

Lord
For the joys and the tears
Let us keep them close through the coming years.