When day is done and the night slips down, <br />And I've turned my back on the busy town, <br />And come once more to the welcome gate <br />Where the roses nod and the children wait, <br />I tell myself as I see them smile <br />That life is good and its tasks worth while. <br /> <br />When day is done and I've come once more <br />To my quiet street and the friendly door, <br />Where the Mother reigns and the children play <br />And the kettle sings in the old-time way, <br />I throw my coat on a near-by chair <br />And say farewell to my pack of care. <br /> <br />When day is done, all the hurt and strife <br />And the selfishness and the greed of life, <br />Are left behind in the busy town; <br />I've ceased to worry about renown <br />Or gold or fame, and I'm just a dad, <br />Content to be with his girl and lad. <br /> <br />Whatever the day has brought of care, <br />Here love and laughter are mine to share, <br />Here I can claim what the rich desire— <br />Rest and peace by a ruddy fire, <br />The welcome words which the loved ones speak <br />And the soft caress of a baby's cheek. <br /> <br />When day is done and I reach my gate, <br />I come to a realm where there is no hate, <br />For here, whatever my worth may be, <br />Are those who cling to their faith in me; <br />And with love on guard at my humble door, <br />I have all that the world has struggled for.<br /><br />Edgar Albert Guest<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/when-day-is-done-4/
