Twas the night before Christmas,
he lived all alone
In a one bedroom house made of plaster and stone.
I had come down the chimney with presents to give, And to see just who in this home did live.
I looked all about, a strange sight did I see,
No tinsel, no presents, not even a tree.
No stocking by the mantel, just boots filled with sand, On the wall hung pictures of far distant
With medals and badges, awards of all kinds,
A sober thought came through my mind.
For this house was different,
it was dark and dreary,
I found the house of a soldier,
once I could see clearly.
The soldier lay sleeping, silent, alone,
curled upon the floor in this one bedroom home.
The face was so gentle, the room in such disorder,
Not how I pictured a United States Soldier.
Was this the hero of whom I just read?
Curled up on a poncho the floor for a bed?
I realized the families I saw on this night,
Owed their lives to these soldiers,
who were willing to fight.
Soon round the world the children would play,
And grownups would celebrate a bright Christmas Day.
They all enjoyed freedom each month of the year, Because of the soldiers,
like the one laying here.
I couldn't help wonder how many lay alone,
on a cold Christmas Eve ,
in a land far from home.
The very thought brought a tear to my eye,
I dropped to my knees and started to cry.
The soldier awakened and I heard a rough voice, "Santa, don't cry, this life is my choice;
I fight for freedom, I don't ask for more,
My life is my God, my Country, my corps."
The soldier rolled over and drifted to sleep,
I couldn't control it,
I started to weep.
I kept watch for hours,
so silent and still
And we both shivered from the cold nights chill.
I didn't want to leave on that cold, dark night
This Guardian of Honor so willing to fight.
The soldier rolled over,
with a voice soft and pure,
Whispered, "Carry on Santa,
It's Christmas Day, all is secure."
One look at my watch and I knew he was right
Merry Christmas, my friend,
and to all a Good Night!
Please feel free to email me. with any comments. At least drop me a note letting me know you were here.
Thanks for stopping over. Have a safe and happy holiday. Don't forget our deployed troops who are spending this one away from their families. Let's hope they come home safe.
