*For my godson Charlie on his christening, April 1980* O Spring Child – What a joy that you should come Just when Mother Nature brings to birth A new world of sights and sounds. O Spring Child – Borne through winter’s cold and gloomy reign. I heard of your birth Just when Quebec’s dying snows Had turned for me into Virginia’s rich and bounteous April warmth. O Spring Child – Your coming brought a greater warmth. A warmth of joy For your life, and for the love that created you. O Spring Child – My prayer for you Is that as you grow Your greatest love Will be for the One who loved you so That He gave His life to give you life. O beloved Spring Child.