Cherish Them [poem by “Southern Cross”]

[Editor: This poem by “Southern Cross” was published in A Child’s Smile (1944).]

Cherish Them

There is no joy like the laughter of happy children,
And no heartbreak like distrust in tiny minds.
If you have little ones be sure you cherish them
And guide their infant steps with loving care.
See that no ill betides the eager childish urge
That opes their eyes with wonder and delight;
Let love and understanding light their questing way —
Your crown of happiness will never fade away.

Source:
Southern Cross, A Child’s Smile, Sydney: F. H. Johnston Publishing Company, [1944], [page 3]

Editor’s notes:
ope = an archaic form of “open”