Seven Lanterns of Liberty

Around a table, warm with light,
Seven lanterns gleamed;
They shone against the coming night,
Where liberty was dreamed.

George Washington, with steady hand,
Held courage clear and bright;
He led the brave through winter’s land,
And kept the cause in sight.

John Adams held that learning’s light
Should shine for one and all;
That laws should guard the common good,
And heed the people’s call.

Then Jefferson, with careful pen,
Wrote words both brave and clear;
That all are made with rights from God,
And liberty held dear.

Ben Franklin brought his thoughtful smile,
His wit, his books, his art;
With wisdom, work, and kindly ways,
He warmed the nation’s heart.

James Madison, with patient mind,
Helped shape the laws with care;
He planned for justice, voice, and peace,
That all might have a share.

Young Hamilton, with eager fire,
Brought industry and light;
He worked to build a nation strong,
And kept his lamp alight.

Sam Adams stirred the patriot heart,
With courage in the square;
He called his neighbors to be brave,
And lift their hopes in prayer.

They did not all, in one same hour,
Sit down at one same place;
Yet each one bore a lantern bright,
With duty, hope, and grace.

One lantern gives a faithful light,
But many shine as one;
Together through the stormy night,
They guide till morning comes.

And children learning of those days
May hold a lantern too;
With honest words and helping hands,
And hearts both kind and true.

For liberty is not a flame
To keep for one alone;
It shines the more when many hearts
Make courage of their own.