The Quiet Magic of a Little Christmas Tree
Sometimes the smallest things — a tiny tree, a simple moment, a child’s gesture — carry the deepest wonder of the season.
little tree
e. e. cummings
little tree
little silent Christmas tree
you are so little
you are more like a flower
who found you in the green forest
and were you very sorry to come away?
see – i will comfort you
because you smell so sweetly
i will kiss your cool bark
and hug you safe and tight
just as your mother would,
only don’t be afraid
look – the spangles
that sleep all the year in a dark box
dreaming of being taken out and allowed to shine,
the balls the chains red and gold the fluffy threads,
put up your little arms
and i’ll give them all to you to hold
every finger shall have its ring
and there won’t be a single place dark or unhappy
then when you’re quite dressed
you’ll stand in the window for everyone to see
and how they’ll stare!
oh but you’ll be very proud
and my little sister and i will take hands
and looking up at our beautiful tree
we’ll dance and sing
“Noel Noel”
Reflection
E. E. Cummings’ little tree invites us into a child’s world where tenderness shapes everything. The poem reminds us that wonder doesn’t come from grand displays but from the simple act of caring for something small and vulnerable. In comforting the tree, the child reveals the deeper spirit of Christmas — the instinct to nurture, protect, and bring joy. Every spangle becomes a promise of belonging, every decoration an act of love. It’s a gentle nudge to slow down, to see with innocent eyes, and to remember that magic often hides in the quietest corners.
Question for Readers:
What small holiday moment has brought you unexpected wonder or warmth this season?