Christmas in Baghdad

Christmas in Baghdad

Far from home, no twinkling lights

No holiday rushing ‘round -

It might be Christmastime back home,

But here it can’t be found.

There’s dust and rubble in place of snow

No carolers’ songs fill the street.

No Salvation Army donation bells -

Just a child who begs for a treat.

I give him a candy and tussle his hair,

How I wish I could see my boy!

Merry Christmas, I say, though I wish I could give

A bike, or a Christmas toy.

He smiles bright and in English says,

Thank You! as he scampers away -

I give him a wave and continue patrol;

There’s no break on Christmas Day.

I remember the Christmas pageant last year -

This year my daughter is singing.

But I’m doing my job and doing it proud

And the bells of freedom are ringing.

I love my family and I love my God

And I love my country true.

I’ll celebrate Christmas in my heart

While I fight for the Red, White, and Blue.

Carol Channer

December 2004

Author's Note

One from a decade ago, but still seems like yesterday. . .

Reviews

[MomzillaNC]

Very moving. Merry Christmas to you and yours.