Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807-82) was a celebrated poet and one of the most famous Americans of his era. His poem "Christmas Bells" was written during the Civil War period and includes a somber message, but overall, it celebrates the joy that the traditional Christmas bells bring to a war-torn country. The poem has been set to music and is a popular carol now.
(Stanza 1): I heard the bells on Christmas Day
Their old, familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet
The words repeat
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!
George Wither (1588-1677) was a somewhat controversial poet in the 17th century. He was imprisoned for writing poetry that satirized the English monarchy and supported people's rights. Later in his career, he published a book of poems, "Hymns and Songs of the Church," which is the earliest known English hymn book. His poem "A Christmas Carol" celebrates the joy of the season for people in every part of society, as in the first stanza:
So now is come our joyful feast,
Let every man be jolly;
Each room with ivy leaves is dressed,
And every post with holly.
Though some churls at our mirth repine,
Round your foreheads garlands twine,
Drown sorrow in a cup of wine,
And let us all be merry.
Winifred Sackville Stoner Jr. (1902-83) was considered a child prodigy in her era and published many poems, including verses for children. This poem sends a wish for Christmas joy to the reader and would make a nice framed gift.
When gladly ring the Christmas chimes,
Then come our reminiscent times
And even cold hearts - slow to beat -
Feel something of the love thought heat
That emanates from one and all
And to our far off loved ones call.
Then YOU must feel all through and through
The tingling of my thoughts of you.
These are my messengers so true
Who bear this message, "I love you,
And wish you on this Christmas day
A joyful heart that comes to stay,
Not only for a day or two,
But for your whole life's journey through."
This short and simple poem will make a great inscription in a card. It is a good reminder that Christmas joy can be spread all year long.
Christmas is forever, not for just one day,
for loving, sharing, giving, are not to put away
like bells and lights and tinsel, in some box upon a shelf.
The good you do for others is good you do yourself.