SOUNDS OF WINTER
Listen to the wind as it whistles down the street,
It whines and groans as in coldness it will greet
Who venture out when the cold winter wind blows,
It bites and nips, whips and cuts, as ever on it goes.

Listen to the crunch as boots walk on the cold snow,
Stamping feet to try and bring warmth back to each toe,
Listen to the swish of skates on ice, laughter in the cold air,
Some falling often, others dancing like a professional pair.

Listen to the sounds of sweet carols being sung here and there,
The sound of Christmas music spreading happiness everywhere,
Listen to the prattle of the children as they think of Christmas day
And you hope some of those sweet dreams may come their way.

Night comes and the wind still whistles and cries out loud,
The moon, sometimes part hidden by the billowing cloud,
Hurries along. Listen, can you hear the cry of the wolf in the cold,
Carried on the blowing bitter wind as if some sad tale he has told.

Listen, and maybe you may hear the cry of a new baby born,
Especially in early morning on some cold Christmas morn,
Close your eyes as you listen, remember what we celebrate this day,
As in the warmth of indoors from the chilling wind, you safely stay.

The sounds of winter can bring to mind God?s sacrifice of all,
Sending His beloved Son to save His children from the fall,
Listen and be glad of the greatest gift to man even given,
Give thanks for a babe born so that we can return to heaven.

M Ann Margetson November 25, 2001