Until the Sandman Comes

* For my dearest children, who now have children of their own * ~ Here in your father's arms Birthed and crying ... Afforded of worldly harms Daylight dying ... Lullabies shall kiss your ears Sleep my child, allay your tears Love abides until the sandman comes Here on your father's knee Small and bouncing ... Story songs to brighten thee Darkness denouncing ... Happy endings made to smile Heavy eyelids all the while Love abides until the sandman comes Here in your father's keep New wings, proving ... Soaring free, but for sleep Burgeoning, moving ... Reluctantly I'm letting go Tumble, rise, I watch you grow Love abides until the sandman comes Here in your father's heart Gone now, ages ... Stories of your own, impart Turning pages ... Now, those lullabies to sing Children, thine, beneath your wing Love abides until the sandman comes Here at your father's side My hours numbered ... Now it's you who must abide Breaths, encumbered ... Joyous days we shared, beguiled Please don't cry, my darling child Love abides until the sandman comes. ~ 1st Place ~ in the "Your Best Poem 2020" Poetry Contest, John Hamilton, Judge & Sponsor. ~ 1st Place ~ in the "What Matters Most To You" Poetry Contest, Chantelle Anne Cooke, Judge & Sponsor.