The Lantern Keeper

In the hush of midnight’s garden,
A lantern keeper walks alone,
His light a gentle, golden pardon
For every shadow overgrown.
He hums a song of hope and wonder,
Soft as dew on thirsty leaves,
Guiding lost ones safely under
The arching arms of ancient trees.
He never asks for thanks or glory,
Just tends the flame with quiet grace—
A silent prayer, a whispered story
Of love that lights the darkest place.
Sometimes the wind will try to smother
The fragile glow he holds so dear,
But steadfast hands, unlike any other,
Shield the flame and calm the fear.
And when the dawn begins its waking,
He turns to rest, his work complete—
A thousand hearts, no longer aching,
Find gentle peace where angels meet.