Real Tree
It was the week before Christmas and all through the class
Not a student was stirring as they’d given their last.
When what to my wandering eyes did appear
Seniors Owen and Matt with a tree they just cleared.
Past the office they dragged it and on down the hall
They laughed and they giggled they were having a ball.
“Get it out of here now,” I demanded, “for that tree’s far from dead.
“Surely the principal will call for my head!”
After much consternation and some consultation
It was decided to move it might end in frustration.
So accept it we did and decked it with color
We’ll finish our reading and forget all the bother.
In the end all decided it was good for the spirit
So Mr. Van took a seat and opted to bear it.
The poor little tree had proudly earned its reprieve
With hopes that all children should get what they need!
– William Van Lannen
