Christmas Children's Hearts
This poem reminds us that Christmas should fill every child’s heart with joy, and it invites us to remember those who may feel forgotten.
Updated November 24, 2025, by Catherine Pulsifer
At Christmas we often think of bright trees, happy faces, and the excitement that fills a child’s heart. Yet this poem by David V. Bush gently reminds us that not every child wakes to joy on Christmas morning. Some feel the quiet ache of waiting for gifts that never arrive. As you read these heartfelt lines, may you be encouraged to look beyond your own celebration and offer a bit of comfort to children who need it most. A small act of kindness can make a world of difference, turning sadness into hope and helping a child feel seen and loved.
Christmas Children's Hearts
by David V. Bush
Of all the happy times of life,
Of all the happy times each year
Is the happy, happy, yule tide,
The merry, merry, Christmas cheer.
Of all the sad, sad days we know;
Of all the dread, dread times to see
For children’s hearts - can it be so -
A Christmas and no yule tree!
No Christmas tree, no presents bright.
No cheer or happy hum
When children of the poor all night
Wait Santa’s call. He does not come.
O then the sad, sad Christmas time;
The Christmas blight, the Christmas blight;
O little hearts a-bleed - what crime! -
When Santa did not come last night.
In the broad land, land of the brave;
The land of wealth and Christmas tree,
Is there no way, no way to save
The little hearts such misery?
We pause to think, to think - how sad! -
Of countless, countless homes
Where little hearts a-pang - how sad! -
For Santa did not come last night.
Can we condemn, condemn severe,
If hearts are hardened, not to thaw,
If little souls that know no cheer
Grow up to curse and break our law
When all around, good cheer! good cheer!
For them all gloom, not bright! not bright!
For them alone with life so drear
When Santa did not come last night?
Key Message in this poem:
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Christmas brings both joy and sadness
The poem reminds us that while Christmas is a happy time for many, some children feel deep sadness when they wake to an empty Christmas morning. Their quiet disappointment calls us to remember those who need kindness the most.
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Compassion should guide our actions
As we celebrate, the poem encourages us to look beyond our own homes and think about children who feel forgotten. When we give from the heart, even in small ways, we help bring comfort and hope where it is needed.
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Lack of kindness can shape a child’s future
The poem suggests that a child who grows up without love or support may carry hurt into adulthood. Showing care today can help shape a brighter tomorrow for little ones who feel left out.
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We all have a part to play
The poem asks us to pause and reflect. In a land filled with joy and plenty, we each have the power to help ease the sadness of children who feel ignored at Christmas. Our giving spirit can help lift their hearts.
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Conclusion
As we reflect on this poem, we are reminded that Christmas is not only a time for celebration but also a time for caring. The joy we often feel during this season becomes even more meaningful when we extend it to children who long for comfort and kindness. A small act of giving can lift a discouraged heart and bring light to a day that might otherwise feel empty. May this poem inspire each of us to share love with those who need it most and to help make Christmas a time of hope for every child.
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