ON CHRISTMAS EVE
Twas on Christmas eve the storm struck hard,
Many cattle were still out, not in the farm yard,
It was a white-out, the worst I had ever seen,
Just me and a farm boy in the wind, cold and keen.
We had to get them in, too much was at stake,
There had been no storm warning, at any rate
We had to go all wrapped up to the big meadow,
With a note to those coming on us to follow.
The dogs knew the way there instincts very strong.
Knew where the cattle were and if things were wrong,
Driving the tractor was useless so we carefully walked,
They barked and ran ahead then came back as if to talk.
We could hear the battle lowing with cold and fear,
A sound that helped us draw every step more near.
I took the lead beast and the boy followed behind,
And the dogs wandered around the strays to find.
Numb and almost frozen to the bone we travelled on
Then we heard voices, where were they coming from?
Many friends and neighbours and all the big family,
Were coming toward us, to help, as fast as could be.
Hot chocolate placed in each cold half frozen hand,
Someone took over leading from this great band,
More dogs joined in as well and not before too long
All were safely back home where they did belong.
I looked around to thank those who came our way
But there was just the boy and I and two dogs that day,
As in the safety of the barn all cattle soon warm and fed,
There was a glowing fire in the hearth that should be dead.
Christmas eve alone, just the farm boy and I saw a miracle,
An answer to a frantic prayer, a desperate pleading call,
The family were amazed when they arrived home at last,
As we told them of the happenings that had just past.
There had been mild weather and the storm blew in fast,
But through the love of our Father above as He there cast
Before us a wonder, maybe friends from heaven up above
Came down to help that filled us with gratitude and love.
(Millicent) Ann Margetson 12 November 2004