'Twas The Night After Harvest

By Brad Haire

Delta Farm Press

We hope this holiday-inspired harvest poem makes you smile and gives you hope for the season ahead.

'Twas the night after harvest, when all through the farm 

Not a tractor was stirring, safe from weather's harm. 

The seeds were planted in furrows with care 

In hopes that good weather all farmers would share. 

We nestled together all snug in our beds, 

And visions of big yields danced in our heads. 

When out in the fields there arose such a clatter, 

I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter. 

 Away to the window I flew like a flash, 

When what to my wondering eyes should appear, 

Hope for all farmers for a blessed next year. 

More rapid than lightning, the changes they come. 

Now, older! Now, younger! Now, let’s have some fun!  

On, chances! On, markets! We need some real profits! 

His eyes twinkled! His smile was merry! 

His weathered hands steady, his spirit was cheery! 

A bundle of hope had flung on his back, 

I was happy my dogs didn’t attack. 

He spoke not a word, but went straight to work, 

Filled the bins, the silos and cotton gins, then turned with a jerk, 

And laying his finger aside his nose, 

Up through the barn rafters, away he rose. 

He sprang to his truck, gave a whistle so bright, 

I heard him exclaim, as he drove out of sight, 

"Good harvests to all, and God bless you tonight!" 

I hope that wasn’t too cheesy for you and at least brought you a smile. It’s that time of year when we celebrate and give thanks more openly, which is a good thing.