A DAY FILLED WITH JOY

The bells tolling in the distance
Slowly change slumber to awakening
And there is joy

We rise and see the first rays of sunlight
Bouncing off the windows across the valley
And there is joy

The family gathers to break
The night’s renewing fast
And there is joy

Musical sounds of happy tunes
And sacred music fills the air
And there is joy

The light brightened decorations
Sparkle on the still fragrant tree
And there is joy

Gifts are exchanged in celebration
Of the Heaven sent Son’s birth
And there is joy

Each excited revelation of items hoped for
Is accompanied by laughter and glee
And there is joy

Remnants of wondrous wrappings
Are quickly bundled and gone
And there is joy

Holy books are distributed
And opened to well-marked pages
And there is joy

Thoughts are shared of
Shepherds tending flocks
And there is joy

Mother’s tender words remind all
Of the most special of all babies born
And there is joy

A young child speaks of
A long ago brilliant star
And there is joy

Grandpa reminds all of wise men
Bringing news of a king of kings
And there is joy

Miracles are recounted reminding all
He made the lame to walk and the blind to see
And there is joy

Each shares what marvelous uttered messages
Are tucked deep in their gladdened heart
And there is joy

Dad reads about the pinnacle act of His Atonement
Giving understanding to the purpose of life and death
And there is joy

Fragrances fill the air reminding all
Of Christmas meals past
And there is joy

We gather around the leaf extended dining table
And reminisce and enjoy the meal lovingly prepared
And there is joy

Once empty stomachs are quickly filled
With traditional season specialties
And there is joy

Familiar family traditions and napping
Fill the day’s Remaining hours
And there is joy

The sun sets behind the hill
Not long ago lit by morning’s rays
And there is joy

The accompanying dim of sunset
Is brightened one more time by shining abodes
And there is joy

Once again distant bells are heard
Rolling and tolling upon grateful ears
And there is joy

THOUGHTS FOR A CHRISTMAS DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY