Poetry

‘Twas the day after Christmas and all through the rooms,

not a sound could be heard even though it was noon.

The stockings lay empty ‘mid ribbons and tags,

torn wrappings and packaging, boxes and bags.

Deep snores rose from Dad fully dressed on the couch,

while scattered about him were tools from his pouch.

When Mama arose she took one look around

and crawled back in bed without making a sound.

The manger scene tipped as the dog tried to lick

the stray crumbs from cookies left out for St. Nick.

I righted the stable, the shepherd and sheep,

the Mary and Joseph and babe still asleep.

Again the three Wise Men could place by His side,

their gifts for the infant King long prophesied.

Could I give a gift? Something special from me?

I studied my jumble of gifts by the tree.

Would He like to try out my skateboard or sled?

My soft, fuzzy blanket would soften His bed.

And then, from above, there arose such a sound!

Forgetting the gifts, up the stairs I did bound.

Louisa had wakened. Oh my! What a stink!

I tore off her diaper and quick as a wink,

I put on a clean one, now sister smells great.

But wouldn’t you know, a new problem awaits.

It’s past time to eat, sister’s starting to fret,

and joining the ruckus are two hungry pets.

I rummaged through cupboards for something to eat,

and gathered up holiday left-over treats.

I plopped sister down on her favorite quilt,

and gave her a bottle of cold chocolate milk.

The dog wolfed the roast beef with horseradish sauce,

while the cat slurped the eggnog poured over the squash.

I picked up torn papers and boxes galore,

replaced all the tools, and then vacuumed the floor.

When Mom and Dad wakened, they looked at the sight.

Then wrapping their arms ‘round me said with delight…

“Of all of the gifts we received who could guess,

the gift that you gave from your heart was the best!”

And ruffling my hair Mom repeated this truth,

“By serving each other, we’re serving Him too.”

Without even knowing, my gift was just right,

to give to the Savior that first Christmas night.