HIS FIRST AWAY FROM HOME
He wasn't home this year, our bonny laddie,
But when joyous Christmas bells began to ring,
I know his thoughts came soaring o'er the miles,
Just like a homing bird upon the wing.
For deep within his heart he was remembering
The happy Christmas times of years ago.
When he hung his small stocking with the others,
And next morning found it crammed from top to toe.
In his mind was the dear familiar picture,
Of the open hearth, the cheerful dancing flames.
The low voiced conversation of his loved ones
Engaged in some new, delightful game.
The sight of fireworks streaking toward the heavens
The sound of laughter on the crisp night air.
The happy hours passing all too swiftly,
Telling him, the sandman's call was drawing near.
The times he vowed to stay awake and listen,
To reindeer's placing hoofs and Santa's call.
Then awakening to the sunlight flooded morning,
To learn he'd missed the old gent, after all.
When he'd vainly tried to sample all the goodies,
Prepared by mother's gentle, willing hands.
And decided that a tummy made of rubber,
Would be, for little boys, a thing most grand.
Yes, I know all this our darling was remembering,
He was so far away, and yet so near.
This was his first, away from home and loved ones
Our sailor lad, the son we love so dear.