CHRIST-mas

Well I wanted to write this as a poem. But my best poems are almost always inspired. So don't count me out. Money I don't have a lot of ...laugh out loud...inspiration is overflowing when I have my inspiro-flow. So this will be more or less a walk up or down memory lane.

I was in Atlanta. My brothers and Sisters live there with their families. And my family with me in tow. Not sure about your toys and stuff type Christmas. But it was tuff for me and mine this year. And if I can read your mind a bit. No this was not President Obama's fault. And surprise even with my liberal pedigree and my independent bent I am not blaming this hard economic holiday on Bush and perish the thought I should give Rush Limbaugh credit for all the crazy civic and socio economic stuff happening.

And that makes me look at this CHRIST-mas in a new light. For me it's is having my life and the life and safety of my wife and kids. And not worrying about getting lots of stuff. I just could not afford it this year. And even if I could afford it. I'd prefer to have that nest egg for emergencies. That could be medical, that could be the house that could be the car. Maybe the dog needs a tune up. You know what I mean. Sure toys and material stuff is great. But money for a rainy day. That could be right around the 2011 corner. And preparing for that. Is worth me forgoing that Blackjack game machine I wanted.

Then I look at my youngest niece and nephew about 1 and 2 years respectfully and I realize another part of the true ism of CHRIST-mas. It's for the babies and for the kids. God's innocent ones. Not worrying about war,taxes, nukes, racial issues,what career and such a myriad of other things. They just want to play. And then when they get tired off to sleep to dream about Santa Clause, Boxing Day, Candy, carols and so much more. For me and thinking about that is a Christmas gift that can't be bought but it will continue to give until it's the end of our times.

(Inspired by the song "In the Park" by Dr. Lonnie Liston Smith)