A Stone to Mark the Mile

I have been Christmasing a little while
And been pleased to find presents left for me
Tonight a bag of pecans brought a smile
Like my presents did when I was a kid
I found a nutcracker in the pantry
And brushed up on my nutcracking technique
With Christmas coming the end of the week

One of my sons has hidden presents here
I had better not mention what they are
Should his recipients read this I fear
It would snatch surprise from their curious eyes
But I can feel the sparkle of a star
Rising on the horizon of my heart
I am ready for the magic to start

Today I think my new book will arrive
And that always excites me even now
Things like new books make me feel so alive
With Christmas present power at this late hour
I never grew up in that way somehow
And when I get that package it will be
A Christmas present from my poetry

I feel like it will all be worth it when
I hold that gathered harvest in my hand
If you make things too you will understand
That my work at last will be finished then
A little while: a stone to mark the mile

+Steven Curtis Lance



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