Gather now on mountain’s slope
Valley’s vista spread before
In-drawn breath to pause with hope
As sun’s slow rising opens its door.

Growing light quietly warming soft shade
Twinkling touch wakes window pane
Time whispering flowing across glade
Marvel, marvel… strength to gain

Joy-finder mid chaos and fear
Children, laughter, friend, and smile
Elder’s touch and calm wisdom here
Life in full to walk a while

Look and see inside our heart
And for true peace this day embrace
Doubt or grief, new life or start
Another year we lift our face

God reaches out and gathers us up
Opens eyes and ears to know He’s there
… He invites us in with Him to sup
Joy-bringer to joy-finder within His care

Charlotte-Anne Allen