So let it be written

And so the Shortest Day came and the clock slid.

And everywhere down the centuries came people, laughing, pointing,

Asking what manner of fools think to make a string longer

By cutting off one end and tying it to the other?

But still, they are our children, so let us keep the faith.

Sing carols, tell old stories, and drive the dark away.

Recall that in our time we had our odd beliefs,

Strange customs too ingrained to stop, though time had 

Passed them by.

So even as our children take an hour out of their day, 

We nod and know the verities must hold.

Give thanks for time they have, and dearly love their friends,

And hope for peace, and an extra hour of rest.