"When Day Is Done" by Edgar Guest

When Day Is Done

by Edgar Guest

When day is done and the night slips down,

And I've turned my back on the busy town,

And come once more to the welcome gate

Where the roses nod and the children wait,

I tell myself as I see them smile

That life is good and its tasks worth while.

When day is done and I've come once more

To my quiet street and the friendly door,

Where the Mother reigns and the children play

And the kettle sings in the old-time way,

I throw my coat on a near-by chair

And say farewell to my pack of care.

When day is done, all the hurt and strife

And the selfishness and the greed of life,

Are left behind in the busy town;

I've ceased to worry about renown

Or gold or fame, and I'm just a dad,

Content to be with his girl and lad.

Whatever the day has brought of care,

Here love and laughter are mine to share,

Here I can claim what the rich desire--

Rest and peace by a ruddy fire,

The welcome words which the loved ones speak

And the soft caress of a baby's cheek.

When day is done and I reach my gate,

I come to a realm where there is no hate,

For here, whatever my worth may be,

Are those who cling to their faith in me;

And with love on guard at my humble door,

I have all that the world has struggled for.