At Christmastide we’re mindful - of a holy, special Child;

divine through His benevolence; gentle, kindly, mild.

He implanted heavenly visions - that in our minds unfurled,

when He spoke of our eternity - in a glorious afterworld.

The tides of time have drifted - long past that humble birth;

yet His story still imparts to us - news of salient worth.

O’er ages, by example – His guidance lives did drive,

so Good spread sturdy roots - to ensure it would survive.

The open Christmas message - asks all mankind to share,

for, through humane compassion, and loving selfless care -

the believer and the skeptic both; as History or fable;

should thank the holy Child - presiding at their table.

We respect our Christmas Days; they’re times we can reflect -

so His name will never vanish - through mindless, sad neglect.

But there’s a danger of distortion - of what His good life meant,

and what a ‘Happy Christmas’ - should truly represent.

Red herrings in the sea of life - distract through idle play -

like Santa’s tempting presents – stacked high upon his sleigh -

or his jingling merchant’s bells; or the fairies on our trees;

or partaking food in gluttony - to baser senses please.

Commerce introduced in us - distorted Christmas ‘profit’

-and corrupts the season’s message - by making ‘millions off it’.

So, within our world, compassion – can quickly turn to greed;

and port, mince pies, and turkey - are but a bankrupt creed.

All the Good books ever written - we should eagerly consult:

they’re inspired by truth of spirit; not conjured from occult.

And the selfish who tread heedlessly - along their chosen way -

should reflect the Christmas message - brought to us on this day.

Raymond Wray Groves
December 2009