Christmas Alone

Christmas alone When a child Christmas was joyous Merrily enhancing the heart, Memories, smiles and laughter Paper hats, pulling crackers Golden times with parents and brother. When a child, late Christmas Eve Close to midnight hour Father crept quiet as a mouse Into bedroom I shared with brother Filling pillowcases with toys While we pretended to be sleep. . Christmas dinner at laden table Turkey crisp and golden Leg each for my brother and me. Sage stuffing, roast potatoes, brussel sprouts, Christmas pudding with brandy sauce With three-penny pieces for luck. Now, alone, frail in stooping old age Parents, brother long gone Eating alone Christmas day Thinking of other Christmases As child seated at laden table Sharing family's joy and laughter.