This is a sonnet written in the Italian style. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all my friends.
The stars are bright on this, the shortest day.
A fresh, white sheet of frozen linen lies
Across the yard, and more falls from the skies;
The wind in moonlight makes the snowflakes play.
Beside the fire reclining, my thoughts stray
To herald angels calling from on high,
To swaddled baby crying his first cry.
I close my eyes and, soft, begin to pray,
“My Lord, that you have given us your son
Enwrapped in human flesh, the Word became,
Fulfilling all the prophets did fortell,
I scarce can understand what you have done.
But truly thus I understand your name,
Oh God, abide with us, Emmanuel.”
