A New Leaf

He came to my desk with quivering lip—

The lesson was done.

"Dear Teacher, I want a new leaf," he said,

"I have spoiled this one."

I took the old leaf, stained and blotted,

And gave him a new one all unspotted,

And into his sad eyes smiled,

"Do better, now, my child."

I went to the throne with a quivering soul—

The old year was done.

"Dear Father, hast Thou a new leaf for me?

I have spoiled this one."

He took the old leaf, stained and blotted,

And gave me a new one all unspotted,

And into my sad heart smiled,

"Do better, now, my child."

(Kathleen Wheeler)

Dear Lord, Thank you.

• For Your forgiveness when we mess up
• For the New year and the fresh start that comes with it.