Poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote this beloved song on Christmas morning in 1863.
Life had been very painful for him. The Civil War was long and distressing and most people had a hard time just getting by. But Henry had an extra heavy burden because he had lost his wife in a fire, and he was caring for his son who had been wounded in battle.
Christmas was a bitter reminder of all Henry had lost. And yet, as he sat quietly reflecting, he heard the church bells ringing a message of hope. Although Henry had reason to be sad, even bitter, he penned the words to a beautiful Christmas message of faith, hope, peace, and good will.
I love this song. Not one of the better known Christmas carols, this is my Mom's favorite. All of us, my Mom, Dad, six brothers and I, memorized all five verses. Each year we had a Christmas caroling party with family, friends, fun treats, and favorite songs. "I Heard the Bells" was always part of our celebration. Its message may be more relevant now than ever. Hope you enjoy!
I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day
I heard the bells on Christmas Day
Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men.
I thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along the unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.
And in despair I bowed my head:
"There is no peace on earth," I said,
"For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men."
Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
"God is not dead, nor doth he sleep;
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail,
With peace on earth, good will to men."
Till, ringing singing, on its way,
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime,
Of peace on earth, good will to men!
~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
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