Popular Poem Categories:
Occasion & Holiday Poems:
A Reckoning
Christmas is a time when we often think of the people who have touched our lives. In his heartfelt poem, A Reckoning, Arthur Franklin Fuller reflects on the value of friendship and the special bonds that remain strong through the passing years.
Using the image of a ship sailing through calm waters and storms, the poet reminds us that life brings both good times and challenges. Through it all, true friends are the ones who remain close to our hearts, even when we are apart. This Christmas friendship poem is a lovely way to let a dear friend know they are remembered, appreciated, and never forgotten.
Updated October 24, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.
A Reckoning
Poet: Arthur Franklin Fuller
I'm thinking now of you, dear friend,
Because 'tis Christmas Day;
Through Retrospection's paths I went.
And yield to Fancy's sway.
Each soul is a ship upon Life's sea -
Must bear both calms and gales;
A reckoning there oft must be,
To note how now she sails.
Each starts, attended - when all is fair.
But braves alone the deep;
So, few and precious are those who care
A friendly port to keep.
The times and things we two have shared -
Which formed our common ground,
Have woven bonds which Love has spared,
Since Faith our friendship crowned.
I'll think of you throughout the year.
At rest, at work and mart;
There'll always be, your place, my dear -
A shrine within my heart.
Key Reflections In This Poem
- True Friendship Lasts Some friendships remain strong no matter how much time passes or how far apart we may be. The memories and experiences we share create bonds that stay with us throughout life.
- Friends Help Us Through Life Just as a ship faces calm seas and storms, we all experience happy days and difficult times. A true friend offers comfort, understanding, and a place where we feel welcome.
- Remember Those Who Matter Christmas is a wonderful time to think of friends who have made a difference in our lives. A simple message can remind someone that they hold a special place in our hearts.
Popular Pages
Friendship is one of life's greatest gifts, and thoughtful words can help us express how much others mean to us. Explore these poems and quotes about lasting friendships, cherished memories, and remembering those we hold dear.
Celebrate the people who bring joy and meaning to your life with these heartfelt Friendship Poems that express appreciation for special friends.
Find thoughtful words to share with someone special in these Meaningful Friendship Quotes that celebrate the importance of true friends.
Let a friend know they are in your thoughts with these touching Thinking Of You Poems that express care, kindness, and affection.
Discover timeless thoughts on companionship and loyalty in these Famous Friendship Poems that remind us why good friends are worth cherishing.
Share the warmth and meaning of the holiday season with these Christmas Poems that celebrate love, kindness, and the joy of giving.
As one year ends and another begins, find encouragement and thoughtful reflections in these New Year Poems about memories, hope, and new beginnings.
Conclusion
Arthur Franklin Fuller's poem, A Reckoning, reminds us that friendship is not measured by how often we see someone, but by the place they hold in our hearts. Through life's changing seasons, the memories we share and the kindness we receive become treasures that time cannot take away.
As Christmas approaches, think of a friend who has made a difference in your life. Perhaps it is someone you have not spoken to in a while or someone who has stood beside you through difficult times. A simple message to say, "I'm thinking of you," may bring more happiness than you realize. After all, true friendship is a gift worth remembering throughout the year.
More Arthur Franklin Fuller Poems to Inspire