Time spent with my cousins that was a rare delight
Decorations and carols adorned the scene
A landscape of wonder to feed my dreams
As I grew, the meaning of Christmas somehow changed
The innocence of youth replaced by expectation's chains
It became shopping by a list in crowded malls
Scurrying after Thanksgiving to deck the halls
Making sure every base was covered
Using care to not favor one over another
Foreseeing all who would give to me
So I would not fail to return a show of generosity
The crushing obligation of what I feel I must do
Replacing the wonder of Christmas dreams coming true
Being present and open hearted for each day of the season
Overshadowed by the use of deduction and reason
Through my daughter's eyes I have seen that old glow
That used to make my eyes twinkle and the excitement flow
I have witnessed those lights and magic once more
And again the meaning of Christmas is different than before
I still have tasks that I chose to complete
But in meeting all expectations, I accept my defeat
I can only do what comes from my heart
And to focus this way, I make Christmas my Art
So bring on the carols and the family gatherings,
The lights, decorations, and mystical imaginings,
Gratitude for the year's blessings in a final toast,
And an awareness of what really matters the most
-written around 8 years ago
