CHRISTMAS
Familiar scenes on Christmas Day
When church bells toll, when people pray;
When thoughts of love and peace ascend,
When old and modern customs blend.
The Christmas tree, an evergreen,
The symbol of a life serene,
With baubles, presents, tinsel hung,
Today holds magic for the young.
The star atop the tree reveals
A sign of hope and high ideals;
The holly stands for joy and peace;
Beneath its boughs old conflicts cease.
From mistletoe would ancient folk
Its healing qualities invoke;
Depicting love this sacred leaf
Secures from death's attending grief.
Saint Nicholas who plays a part,
Who sets aglow a young child's heart;
His legends speak a selfless creed:
Protective care to those in need.
The Christ child swaddled in the straw,
The wise men, shepherds, filled with awe;
The mother's gaze of love and pride:
A scene which turned the human tide.
These symbols, myths of ancient times
Blend with beliefs of Christian climes:
The hope for peace 'midst all mankind,
With love and tolerance entwined.
© Vivienne Ledlie