Through the Eyes of Children

Through the Eyes of Children
by Vivian Gilbert Zabel

The gifts piled under the tree attracted the little ones,
their eyes wide in wonder at each twinkling light.
"That's mine," the small girl said, pointing a present.
Her bright smile, with dimples, showed her delight.

She reached to touch the pretty wrapping, once more,
the bow tipped askew from previous finger-tip regards.
The room, shabby not rich, showed love and care
with worn trimmings and an arch of Christmas cards.

But the girl and brother thought it a wonderland
with color and glitter never seen by them before.
"Ohh," the boy sighed as he gazed at the star,
one which guided kings but welcomed the poor.

Behind them, making not a sound, stood Momma
with tears. Her babies' joy in so little touched her heart.
Clearly, she saw the tatters and worn ornaments,
the shaggy Christmas tree, ready to fall apart.

Her children, though, stood in awe at the sights
found in the humble home, the first noel they knew.
The love felt and expressed by their mother
gave an added glow to the celebration, too.

Children view the world differently
than older, wiser people too often do.
If safe and secure with love in their world,
beauty they see, with shadows few.

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