‘Twas the Week Before Christmas

‘Twas the week before Christmas when all through my head
Stirred the thoughts of the Season I’d now come to dread.
The lights were all hung on the mantle with care
And the tree was adorned with my usual flair.

The cookies were nestled all snug in the freezer,
All of their favourites ‘cause I am a pleaser,
And grabbing my coat on the way out the door
I settled myself for a drive to the store.

Away to the mall I flew like a flash,
Strapped on my purse and readied my cash.
The parking was scarce and I saw a collision
But pulled into a space with NASCAR precision.

The doors opened wide with a rush of warm air.
There was glitter and music and lights everywhere.
When what to my wondering eyes should appear
But a sign to announce “Don’t pay ‘til next year!”

Consumers stared dazed at the now empty shelves,
Pressured to get things their kids buy themselves.
I elbowed past strangers and fought through the crowd,
Then finished my shopping while grumbling aloud.

Were the gifts good enough? Did I make a mistake?
As I re-think my choices, my head starts to ache.
I returned to my house and checked through my list
Desperately wondering what detail I’d missed.

There are concerts and pageants and carols to sing,
Tree lighting, parades and church bells to ring.
Did I send the right cards to my friends far away?
Did I buy enough turkey to last through the day?

I pulled out the scissors, the wrapping and tape
Scanning travel brochures to plan my escape
And pushing aside the Nativity scene,
I began to wrap presents in red, gold and green.

As I went through the motions and finished my task
There were feelings to sort and questions to ask.
With a heart that was heavy, I shook off the stress;
It was time to get busy and clean up my mess.

With a frustrated sigh I uncovered the stable
And looked at the manger that sat on my table.
How did I lose sight of Emmanuel’s birth?
When did I forget to consider His worth?

I spoke not a word but went straight to my knees
And bowed to the baby with sorrowful pleas
And laying a finger to wipe off a tear,
I remembered the purpose for this time of year.

Christmas isn’t a circus, a hassle or show;
Jesus came to bring peace on that night long ago.
He rules the earth with truth and grace
Deserving of His rightful place.

Forget about tension and deadlines and “stuff”
A Savior was born and that is enough.
Resolve to keep Jesus out in plain sight
Joy to the World and O Holy Night!

Kitty Nancekievill is a member of WSPC who lives in Gravenhurst with her husband and daughter. She enjoys reading, writing, traveling and spending time with her five children and their families.