...and no, I'm not really talking about China.

China wrapped in paper and string
is to most a precious thing

we try to handle with great care
for it is valuable, and very rare.

'Tis fragile and with ease can break
(This very thought makes many quake)

and so, to stop this, they work hard,
to assure that it remains unmarred.

Most will take and hide it away
or put in a safe place to display

behind a latch, or lock and key
they put it there for all to see

but none may touch, that much is clear
because of that which they all fear

an act of God, or a hand that slips,
that puts in china many small chips,

or maybe it lend to a careless soul
who then forgets; leaving you unwhole,

and also there are those who steal,
to leave a place that never heals.

or even worse; a spiteful toss
that turns this prize into but dross.

So into cupboard and box they go,
for protection and safety. Although,

I must confess I much prefer
to bring it out and share with her.

It’s true, while doing, I take a risk,
that someone will crack or break that disk

But what good is displayed china to me?
I’d rather use it in good company.

And if, by chance, the china is broken,
by one of the ways that I have spoken,

I’ll take it, mend it, or buy it anew,
for the risk is worth it, to share with you

my china, wrapped up in paper and string,
which is, of course, my most precious thing.