How lovely this mid-winter fest,
Which breaks long winter's trek.
For most this well-earned timely rest,
Keeps sanity in check.

For now when night yields slow to day,
And gloom long shrouds the land.
When pallid sun quick steals away,
The season takes a stand.

A festival to counter all,
Each winter hands our way.
A gift which sees us held in thrall,
That we call Christmas Day!