Advent Ghosts

The way you spend Christmas is far more important than how much. - Thoreau

Familial crunch of old snow beneath blithesome boots.

Lingering, benificent breath visible.

Flutists blowing frozen remembrances.

Stars twinkling of erstwhile merriment.

Christmas past.

Crackling yule log upon the hearth.

Hot cocoa steeping inside a porcelain mug.

Aroma of balsam fir dances a blissful ballet, tickling olfactory ribbons and bows.

Woolen mittens insulate sledding and snowballing hands.

Christmas present.

Freckle-faced angels tucked snugly into bed, dreaming of what tomorrow will bring.

Candles and stained glass guiding carolers.

Standing guard over innocence and time.

A child is born.

A bright eternal star.

Sins atoned and faith beckons.

Christmas future ...

Author's Note

"Christ was a sublime actor on the stage of the world. He knew what he was thinking of when he said, "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away." I draw near to him at such a time. Yet he taught mankind but imperfectly how to live; his thoughts were all directed toward another world. There is another kind of success than his. Even here we have a sort of living to get, and must buffet it somewhat longer. There are various tough problems yet to solve, and we must shift to live, betwixt spirit and matter, such a human life as we can." - Thoreau

Reviews

[R.E. Ray]

Pete, this one is rich with images, aroma and warmth, and certainly a Christmas many would enjoy. It appears we’re often too busy with ordering from Amazon, shopping at the Apple store and others, and we miss these moments. You’ve captured the essence of the season in this poem, and of course you presented something appropriate from Thoreau. Well done!

[Pete]

you made me laugh. i doubt that many will remember the material "gifts" they received or purchased - only the aggravation involved. thanks for reinforcing what it's really about r.e. merry christmas and happy new year my friend! ... :)

[Fran Marie]

oh the Christmases past.,present and future
a joy to remember. a joy to enjoy in the moment and a joy to anticipate ..a lovely piece that. embodies the essence of yuletide feelings

Christmas Cheers!

[Pete]

thanks fran. wishing you a very merry christmas and a blessed, happy new year my friend! ... :)