The Word Spoken in Jest

Poemata XXIV

"I know babies," the comedian said
In jest he spoke, but truth instead
Was made to wear a funny cloth
Lest 'gainst the truth we would be wroth;
"I know babies", is what fathers say
If indeed they see that day
Or care to even - when such are born
If from their "works" they can be torn;
I know babies, because I must
For troth is but a future trust
And knowing not your progeny
Means such trust can never be;
I know babies, their eyes are gray
Silent before in crying say
That breath is hard, and turning pink
They forget every thought they think;
I know babies, they are not weak
But fierce though none of them speak
And violent but innocent they know
Both love and hate, so far they show;
I know babies, whose toothless smile
Defies you, man of sin so vile;
Whom you must try to destroy
Because to them but life is joy;
I know babies, as His mother did
For even He in flesh was hid
And looked to father as we do
Even God was once a baby too.