Thank God for Little Children

By Frances E. W. Harper

Thank God for little children!
Bright flowers by earth’s wayside,—
The dancing, joyous life-boats
Upon life’s stormy tide.

Thank God for little children!
When our skies are cold and gray,
They come as sunshine to our hearts,
And charm our cares away.

I almost think the angels,
Who tend life’s garden fair,
Drop down the sweet wild blossoms
That bloom around us here.

It seems a breath of heaven
“Round many a cradle lies,”
And every little baby
Brings a message from the skies.

The humblest home, with children,
Is rich in precious gems;
Better than wealth of monarchs,
Or golden diadems.

Dear mothers, guard these jewels
As sacred offerings meet,—
A wealth of household treasures,
To lay at Jesus’ feet.