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.
