The Laughing Brook

When I was young I used to wake and get up at sunrise
To watch the morning fog upon the meadow start to rise
One day off in the distance I could hear a happy sound
But oddly it seemed to be coming from beneath the ground

I ran out through the meadow and across the fields of green
And noticed a small bubbling brook that I had never seen
The clear and sparkling water made the sound that I was after
Flowing 'cross the rocks they filled the morning air with laughter

"Why are you so happy?" I asked the waters with a smile
The shining water smiled right back and said, "Come sit awhile"
So I sat there beside the stream and listened as it told
Of sights that it had seen upon its journey bright and bold

"How can I not be happy?" the clear water said to me
If you had seen the things I have then quickly you would see
My water started flowing from a spring deep in the earth
High up in those mountains is where I was given birth

Traveling down the mountain through the timberland so tall
I saw some thirsty animals and gave a drink to all
And then I saw a little mill on further down the way
I turned its big old water wheel so you’d have bread today

And over those small hills you see and past the woods beyond
I traveled through some pasture land and filled a little pond
The cattle there were grateful and I went upon my way
I passed a little cottage where I watched some children play

The older boys had taken wood and each had built a boat
They teased the smallest boy and told him his would never float
I lifted up his tiny boat and watched his happy smile
As I tipped the other boats over and left them in a pile

Then as I traveled on I saw some worn out fishermen
My waters took their lures to fish so they could reel them in
When I passed through a little town the children came to swim
My cooling water made the day a joyous time for them

And after I have left you here my work has just begun
I'll flow into a lake and share my gifts with everyone
And that is why I laugh so much my young and curious friend
The good Lord’s blessed my waters from beginning to the end

With that the brook went on its way, laughing as it flowed
Content within its purpose carrying a life sustaining load
Bringing a gift of water to all creatures there in need
Happily day after day performing its good deed

I still remember to this day that lesson that I learned
The greatest joys you get in life are given and not earned
I always will be grateful for the moments that I took
Spent listening to the story of the little laughing brook