December 5, 2008
A
Christmas Poem
T'was the night before Christmas, he lived all alone. In a one bedroom
house made of plaster and stone.
I had come down the chimney with presents to give, and
to see just who in this home did live.
I looked all about, a strange sight did I see. No
tinsel, no presents, not even a tree.
No stocking by the mantle, just boots filled with sand.
On the wall hung pictures of far distant lands.
With medals and badges, awards of all kinds, a sober
thought came through my mind.
For this house was different, it was dark and dreary.
I found the home of a soldier, once I could see clearly.
The soldier lay sleeping, silent, alone, curled up on
the floor in this one bedroom home.
The face was so gentle, the room in disorder, not how I
had pictured an United States soldier.
Was this a hero of whom I'd just read? Curled up
on a poncho, the floor for his bed?
I realized the families that I saw this night, owed their
lives to these soldiers who were willing to fight.
Soon round the world the children would play, and
grownups would celebrate Christmas Day.
They all enjoyed freedom each month of the year, because
of the soldiers like the one lying here.
I couldn't help wonder how many lay alone, on a cold
Christmas Eve, in a land far from home.
The very thought brought a tear to my eye. I
dropped to my knees and started to cry.
The soldier awakened and I heard a rough voice.
"Santa don't cry, this life is my choice".
The soldier rolled over and drifted to sleep. I
could not control it, I continued to weep.
I kept watch for hours so silent and still, and both of
us shivered from the cold night's chill.
I didn't want to leave on that cold, dark night.
This guardian of honor so willing to fight.
The soldier rolled over with a voice soft and pure,
whispered, "carry on Santa, It's Christmas Day, all is secure."
One look at my watch and I knew he was right.
Merry Christmas my friend, and to all a good night.
This was written by a Marine stationed in Okinawa,
Japan.
Previous
Issues
Brother Dave Monson made sure the BBQ was well mixed for
the Community Christmas Party.
Your webmaster, Rita and Dorothy Hall "manning" the
serving window making sure everyone was well fed at our Community Christmas
Party.
