Showing posts with label Christmas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Christmas. Show all posts

Thursday, December 11, 2025

Stillness

"Stillness"


A candle flickers low into the night.

Makes time feel like it's slowdown to a crawl.

For in this world it makes big things feel small.

With steady flame it shapes a peace so bright.

 

Shake a snow globe and everything moves fast.

Our lives can seem hectic like the snow storm.

Each snow flake gently settles, it takes form,

To teach you how to breath before it's passed.

 

Each figure at the manger invites the same.

Peace can exist when the world is so loud.

A simple scene with a message so wowed.

A power to inspire starts with his name.

 

These symbols whisper what we need to hear.
You should slow down, breathe deep, let peace draw near.


Saturday, November 8, 2025

The Five Intrusions of Christmas Peace

 "The Five Intrusions of Christmas Peace"

Not a typical Christmas poem, but five parallel meditations on how peace breaks into human life - uninvited and unexpected.


"The Unlocked Stable"


We expect to find it,
  Each year we try,
    To outdo the year before.

We light every candle,
  Arrange every flower,
    Create silence and order.

But peace doesn't knock, it just comes right in. 

Reality sets in with chaos,
  With a mess spread all over,
    And nothing is prepared.

With guests arriving
  Before we are ready,
    And something has to give.

Like a thief through the back door, peace finds the unlocked stable.


"The Shepherds' Fortune"


We assume God
  Visits the worthy,
    The prepared, the important.

We watch the powerful,
  The influential, 
    The connected.

But peace keeps different company.

Reality sets in with the tired,
  The overlooked,
    The ones no one watches.

With those too busy surviving
  To watch for angels,
    Who never expected to be found.

Peace picks the pockets of the proud and fills the hands of shepherds.


"Midnight Arrival"


We wait for the right moment.
  When we're ready,
    When we've earned it.

When we're finally good enough,
  Peaceful enough,
    Worthy enough.

But peace keeps its own calendar. 

Reality sets in at midnight,
  Mid-journey through nowhere,
    Or in the middle of no room.

With labor coming too early,
  A census that won't wait
    And everything happens at once.

Peace crashes through our carefully timed plans.


"When Walls Cannot Hold"


We fortify our hearts,
  Build walls of control, 
    Lock our chaos away. 

We think peace requires 
  Perfection first, 
    Achieve calm to receive it.

But peace knows every entrance.

Reality sets in through the cracks,
  Past every defense we built,
    Into rooms we kept locked.

With all of our uncertainty,
  Confusion still swirling,
    Our fear breaking down the door.

Peace picks the lock of our defended heart.


"Stolen Distance"


We imagine divine glory
  Must stay in heaven,
    Too holy for the earth.

We expect too much,
  Something magnificent,
    Too grand for our mundane reality. 

But peace doesn't keep its distance.

Reality crashes down through the ceiling,
  Tears the veil between worlds,
    And plants heaven in our dirt.

With the infinite compressed to an infant,
  The cosmic contained in flesh,
    And God is close enough to touch.

Peace steals heaven's distance and makes God nearer than breath.



Is your expectation this year to find the Christmas Peace?  Look. It is out there.

Tuesday, December 17, 2024

12 Thanks of Christmas

 The following are thank you sonnets in response to the 12 days of Christmas gifts that my parents sent to us:

The Partridge's Gift


Upon this festive eve, a gift appeared,
A fragrant token wrapped in holiday cheer.
Its warmth and light, a joy to be revered,
Illuminates the season bright and clear.

Though partridges have flown from pear trees tall,
Your kindness lands within our grateful hearts.
This candle’s glow shall grace both room and hall,
A gift of love, where every glow imparts.

The rhyme of Christmas whispers through the air,
Your thoughtful note a treasure we hold dear.
For every line reveals your tender care,
And fills our home with joy this time of year.

We thank you for this gesture sweet and true,
And send our love and gratitude to you.


Blessings in every Bite

Two doves, sweet symbols of the season’s care,
And turtles, nestled rich in chocolate’s glow,
Arrived to warm our hearts with love’s soft flow,
A gift that proves your thoughtfulness so rare.

Your kindness lingers like the winter air,
A gentle breeze that sets our joy to grow.
Through treats and treasures, all your love does show,
A family bond beyond what words declare.

Each bite reminds us of the love we share,
The peace of home, the laughter that sustains.
A lasting joy no passing time restrains.
These simple gifts hold blessings far more fair,

Your love, more sweet than any feast, we prize,
A gift that never fades, but always ties.


French Hens Reimagined

With cans of soup, a gift of warmth and cheer,
Though hens of France have left the stage today.
Their absence whispers soft, yet still sincere,
For in this broth, their spirit finds its way.

A thoughtful gesture, steeped in love and care,
Arrives with laughter, seasoning the night.
No shipping fees, no feathered friends to bear,
Just simple joy, a culinary delight.

O gift of warmth, thou art a feast divine,
A savory ode to Christmas' embrace.
Through every sip, thy comfort shall entwine,
And bring a smile to light this wintry space.

Though hens may roam in lands beyond our reach,
Their essence lingers in this soupy speech.

Notes of Kindness, Wings of Cheer

Four calling birds flew in with words of cheer,
A chorus sung with love upon the air,
Their melody, a balm to soothe despair,
Reminding us of those we hold most dear.

Your notes of courage echo in my mind,
With every phrase, a torch to light the way,
'You’ve got this!' whispers boldly through the gray,
A steadfast voice, so caring and so kind.

Through simple acts, your love has found its place,
A beacon shining bright through wintry skies,
Your faith in us, like stars that never die,
A warmth that time and distance can’t erase.

In every word, a treasure I have found,
Your gift, a song of love, forever sounds.

Life Savers of Christmas

On Christmas Day, the fifth, your message came,
A thought of love wrapped in a minty hue,
No golden rings, no treasures bright to view,
Yet joy within a humble guise took aim.

Sweet rings, no weight to bear, no gilded chain,
Their laughter laced with peppermint's delight,
No gems, but warmth of hearts so purely bright,
A gift of cheer that none could e’er disdain.

The life we cherish, lightened of its load,
Finds meaning not in wealth, but love’s embrace.
Through simple acts, a brighter path is showed,
Where kindness blooms and brightens every space.

So grateful am I, rings of love I see,
More precious far than gold could ever be.


Eggs of Joy, Hearts of Gold


Upon the sixth day, geese took to the skies,
Their clamor loud, yet leaving quite a prize—
A nest of wonders, where your kindness lies,
Bright chocolate eggs, a feast for merry eyes.

Though geese have flown, their magic lingers near,
A playful note, your thoughtfulness in flight,
Such treasures bring us warmth, a pure delight,
Transforming winter’s chill to Christmas cheer.

We laughed, imagining their swift ascent,
Yet marveled more at what they left behind,
A gesture full of love so well-designed,
Through simple gifts, your hearts so eloquent.

So with this sonnet, let us now convey,
Our heartfelt thanks for joy you sent our way.


A Crown for Every Smile

Though swans were scarce this seventh Christmas night,
Our joy took wing with every popper’s cheer,
As golden crowns on every head drew near,
And laughter turned the dark to festive light.

With thoughtful gifts, your care made spirits bright,
Each trinket sparked a memory held dear,
A harmony of hearts that’s ever clear,
These moments shared will linger in their flight.

A token of your love beyond compare.
Your thoughtful care brought warmth to every soul,
Such merriment shall linger ever whole,
Transforming moments into treasures rare.

To you, we send our thanks, both deep and true,
For all the joy your thoughtfulness did brew.


Raise A Cup of Cheer 

Upon the eighth day, gifts arrive with cheer,
A rhyming verse and treasures wrapped with care.
In spirit, through the barn's imagined air.
Maids-a-milking are absent, yet they appear.

From cows of brown, rich creamy milk does flow,
Transforming now to chocolate's sweet delight.
A warm embrace upon each winter's night.
In our cups we find the joy their gifts bestow.

Oh, busy bees, you labor with such love,
Your thoughtfulness a beacon shining bright.
To fill our hearts with laughter and with light.
A gesture pure, like blessings from above.

Dear parents, may your kindness always shine,
Your gifts a sweeter bond of love divine.

Heart of the Ninth

Upon the ninth, your gift did brightly shine,
A clever twist on ladies dancing round,
No music blared, no pounding steps to sound,
Instead, a treasure meant to intertwine.

Through puzzles, games, and laughter so divine,
Our hearts with joy and gratitude are bound,
An evening’s cheer in family time profound,
A memory made, a spark of Christmastime.

Your gift, a treasure wrapped in love so true.
Speaks of kindness and warmth that starts to appear. A memory that brings us close and near. A bond that thrives, a gift we’ll always view.

To you, dear parents, thanks we humbly send.
Your gift, a joy that will not ever end.

Where Popcorn Leaps, Love Abounds

Though leaping lords have tumbled in the snow,
Their gallant gift remains within our sight,
A simpler joy, yet brimming with delight,
For humble kernels make a splendid show.

The microwave hums its warming glow,
Popcorn ascends in airy, golden flight,
A fleeting magic on this winter night,
Where laughter blooms and merry moments flow.

We'll gather close, a family full of cheer,
With games and stories, hearts and hands entwined.
Your thoughtful gift, with love so well designed,
Each popping sound a treasure we hold dear.

Your thoughtful gift, so simple yet profound,
Brings joy that leaps where love and laughs abound.

A Warming Cheer to Our Family

Your thoughtfulness has warmed our hearts so bright,
Eleven pipers piping joy anew,
A plumber's tribute, clever through and through,
Bringing us cheer this cold December night.

With cocoa rich to chase the frost's harsh bite,
A cup to share, sweet moments to imbue,
Each sip a bond between our merry crew,
Your gifts, like stars, make darkened skies alight.

This journey’s been a treasure, day by day,
Each package filled with laughter, love, and cheer.
We’ve felt your spirit even from afar,
And though the end is near, we hope to stay,

Forever tied by memories so dear,
Your giving hearts our guiding Christmas star.

The Light That Remains

The final gift, a message clear and bright,
A call to pause and ponder deep within,
The birth of Christ, where all our hopes begin,
And by His love, we find our hearts alight.

The drummers fade, their noise is set aside,
Instead, we sit and read by candle’s glow,
To feel the peace His presence will bestow,
And let His love and wisdom be our guide.

In Luke, we find the story of that night,
The humble birth that brought us joy and grace,
A Savior born to lift the human race.
And now we end, but let His light ignite.

And now we end, but let His light shine bright,
A guiding force that leads us through the night.

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

Christmas Poem 2024

 The Shepherds Still Whisper

(To the tune of "Away in a Manger")


The shepherds once journeyed through darkness and fear,
To find in a manger, a Savior so near.
Their hearts filled with wonder, their tears turned to peace,
For Christ brought a promise that love would not cease.

When loss leaves me broken, and sorrow takes hold,
The story of shepherds brings comfort untold.
They found in the stillness, God’s love shining bright,
A hope everlasting, a dawn in the night.

A loved one might rest in the arms of the King,
Where angels are gathered, His praises to sing.
The shepherds still whisper, “Take heart and draw near,
For Christ is the healer of grief and of fear.”

Though empty my hands, yet I lift them in prayer,
And trust in the promise: God’s love will repair.
Like shepherds, I’ll seek Him; His peace I will find,
For Christ binds the sorrow of heart, soul, and mind.

Whispers of Wonder 


Whispers from above, the angels glide,
With snowy wings they shake and softly fall,
Their descent brings a hush, a quiet thrall,
As stillness blankets all the world outside.

All it takes is a single, flickering flame,
Its quiet glow to pierce the darkened night,
Casting shadows that sway, a dancing light,
Reflecting Christmas pasts, hopes yet untamed.

The season’s story whispers, soft and true,
Of humble hearts and blessings simply found,
In simple gifts, where gratitude abounds,
And light that rises when the dark is due.

Through gentle whispers, hope and peace take flight,
In love’s embrace, we find our guiding light.


Christmas Story 2024

Holiday Harmony - Newfold Style

The clock struck midnight. I awoke to find a tiny figure standing next to me. “I am Lumi, the Newfold Spirit of Holiday Harmony. Come with me, and I’ll show you the flavors that bring us together.”

 Before I could respond, the room vanished.

We landed in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The streets buzzed with laughter as Lumi introduced me to Asado, a grilled beef with a smokey tenderness. This included pan dulce, a sweet bread speckled with dried fruit and nuts that brings us all together to share in the joy. “Here,” Lumi said, “food is a ritual of love and togetherness.”

We then went to Cebu, Philippines. I was greeted by festive lanterns and the aroma of Lechón, its crispy skin a holiday centerpiece. I tried the Sisig served with chopped pork and chicken liver. Lumi then handed me Puto Bumbong, a purple rice cake topped with coconut and sugar. “This is their way of savoring sweetness after a night of prayer,” Lumi explained.

Next, we found ourselves amidst the lively streets of Mumbai, India. Lumi guided me to a table filled with vibrant dishes. I sampled Undhiyu, a fragrant vegetable medley cooked with aromatic spices, scooped up with soft, warm Chapati bread. Each dish is a labor of love that brings people together.

Suddenly, I was home. The scents of cinnamon and masa swallowed me up. My family laughed as they prepared tamales, stirring champurrado in a steaming pot. “These traditions,” my family said, “remind us of who we are and what we share.”

I sat down, taking a tamale. Lumi’s light faded as a voice lingered. “The spirit of the season isn’t in faraway places. It’s in the love you bring to your own table.”

The journey ended, but the warmth of the holidays had just begun.


Mango Navidad

(2nd story submission)

Years ago, I found myself in Mexico during the holiday season, serving as a missionary. The climate was a far cry from the snowy winters I was accustomed to, with its sweltering heat and occasional cool breezes. Learning Spanish was a constant struggle. There were days when I felt like I was losing my grip on English, unable to find the right words in either language.

One day, while decorating a small tree with makeshift ornaments, a ripe mango fell from above, hitting me square on the head. I slipped on another, sending decorations flying. Neighbors, drawn by the commotion, gathered around. They brought their own holiday traditions, turning my mishap into a lively fiesta. My attempts to explain snow and Santa led to hilarious misunderstandings, but the laughter was infectious.

It was during these moments that my Spanish started to improve. Interacting with my neighbors, I felt something change. You might think it was the mango knocking sense into me, but it was really the connections I made that helped the language become a part of me.
As we shared stories and traditions, I realized the true spirit of Christmas wasn’t about snow or presents, but about joy and togetherness. Surrounded by new friends and falling mangoes, I felt a deep sense of contentment.

Just as I was about to break a festive piñata, another mango fell, narrowly missing me. Everyone burst into laughter, and I knew this would be a Christmas to remember.







Sunday, December 10, 2023

Christmas 2023 - Give into the spirit of giving

 Give into the spirit of giving

Can you feel it? It's near that time of year.
Placed here to wait patiently 'til this time.
Eager to share willingly in the cheer.
End the long haul during our yearly climb.

I love to share in all that is jolly.
It is not all for me this joyous praise.
It's not just for the festive tamale.
Together we'll spread the holiday glaze.

It doesn't matter if I'm green or red,
Old or New,
Round or Square,
Spelled which way or not,
Eyes opened or Closed.

A spell is found when we're brought out.
Experience it! Feel it! Share it all about.

Entrega al espíritu de dar
¿Puedes sentirlo? Está cerca la época del año.
Colocado aquí esperando pacientemente hasta este momento.
Deseoso en compartir voluntariamente la alegría.
Termine el largo recorrido durante nuestro ascenso anual.

Me encanta compartir todo lo que es alegre.
Para mí no es todo esta gozosa alabanza.
No es sólo para el tamal festivo.
Juntos esparciremos el glaseado navideño.

No importa si soy verde o rojo,
Viejo o nuevo,
Redondo o cuadrado,
Se escribe de qué manera o no,
Ojos abiertos o cerrados.

Se encuentra un hechizo cuando salimos.
¡Experimentalo! ¡Sentirlo! Compártelo con todos.

Friday, December 8, 2023

Holiday Tale of Comical Portions

Holiday Tale of Comical Portions
A holiday tale, a comical sight,
For old Mr. Cubmaster, a jolly soul,
And his six cub scouts all gathered in delight,
For a game to make their spirits glow.

Joined together for some holiday fun.
A modified Yankee swap with a spin
With dice you roll a 7 or 11 is how it's done.
Each had brought a gift they had hoped to win.

A warning given that fun shall be had
But someone was bound to end up in tears.
Dice rolled as the game began, none started mad.
With each present opened, for each one compares.

Was each happy with an opened present?
Except for one, that was really unpleasant.

The gift isn't yours yet for we'd just begun.
The rules state that a speed round will now start.
Pass your gift, roll the dice, for you're not done.
Keep your gift, pass the dice and don't take part.

Emotions high with time now against you.
Wait your turn cause you don't like what you've got.
Can't wait cause your gift no one wants, its' true.
Dismay is seen across the room a lot.

Seven rolled, a gift is now seen flying.
The gift no one wants passed from hands to hands.
Time is now up and one ends up crying
Gift of toilet paper, who understands.

Holiday games should be fun and jolly.
Next time we'll get rid of any volley.

Sunday, December 4, 2022

Sounds of Christmas

Christmas sounds ring loud each year.
Songs of the Christ child playing proud.
A bell rings loud for all to hear,
With the hope it will touch all in the crowd.

Violin strings rip open our heart,
Allowing us to commune with God.
With a Trumpet it plays well it's part,
Pushes us with this celestial prod.

Sopranos notes makes us alert.
The alto combines to make it round.
Tenor sounds will not subvert.
Bass connects celestial to our ground.

Christmas Signs

Look for Christmas signs arrival.
Nothing compares as a rival.
You'd think it's hard to do each year.
Some people do have to steer.

With each turkey cooked it's not strange.
A feeling in the air does change.
A spirit dressed in red tinsel.
With wishes dispels all sinful.

Presents are staged around the tree.
For families, yes, you and me.
Lights are twinkling from heart to heart.
Celebrate God’s love is a start.

With the birth of the Christ child came
Those who searched a light to reclaim.
Search for it through him who creates
By sharing this with those who awaits.

This holiday packed full of lights,
With Christmas trees at higher heights.
Wish lists made to be wrapped in gold.
Slow down now, take time to behold.

Is it really hard to believe
That love, joy and peace will alleve.
Sharing with others is an art.
Take the time to give of your heart.

Sunday, December 20, 2020

Christmas Sense

Christmas Sense

Open your eyes
Allow the light to come in.
See the star that gives hope from within.

Open your mouth
Sing songs of great joy.
Exalting the Christ child much more than a toy.

Open your ears
To the words of life.
He brings an end to all strife.

Open your nose
Breath in the great smells,
Of a fragrance that brings memories and tales.

Open your heart
Allow Him to enter 
It'll bring peace and joy and feel so much better.