Eternal Optimism (An old tale retold)

To open each service, the vicar would start

By thanking God keenly with all of his heart.

The poor congregation could never be sure

When the service began what he might thank God for

But they knew beyond doubt, just as night follows day,

That he’d thank Him for something, for that was his way.

One terrible Sunday a storm had set in

And the vicar arrived looking soaked to the skin.

‘He’ll not want to thank God today,’ people thought

‘For once in his life the old devil’s been caught.’

But the vicar rose, beaming, and started to pray

Saying, “Thank God that most days are not like today.”