Little donkey, little donkey,
On the dusty road.
Got to keep on plodding onwards,
With your precious load.

Been a long time, little donkey,
Through the winter's night.
Don't give up now, little donkey,
Bethlehem's in sight.

Little donkey, little donkey,
Had a heavy day.
Little donkey, carry Mary
Safely on her way.

Do not falter, little donkey,
There's a star ahead.
It will guide you, little donkey,
To a cattle shed.

—Traditional