Blogger: LORAINEJD

What do I do when Christmas draws near?

With no snow in sight, the skies aren't so clear.

The sun and the rain take turns in the play,

But rain rules the season in its own quiet way.

When December begins, so does the cheer,

The glow of decor makes magic appear.

On the radio, carols ring warm and bright,

Filling the air with a wondrous delight.

Skipping towards the December 15,

The early masses begins, some for six in the evening,

The bells are tolling,

To the citizens they are calling.

The nine dawn masses mark December's glow,

Ending on the 23rd, but there's more to show.

On Christmas Eve, Misa de Gallo draws near,

Though in our barangay, it's at ten, oh, it's clear.

Fairy lights twinkle all over the town,

Children go carolling, voices resounding.

I was once one of them, singing with pride,

With coins in our pockets, our joy magnified.

Back in high school, our carols would ring,

Raising funds for outreach, a heartwarming thing.

Children from barangays would smile so wide,

For Christmas had come with love as their guide.

Christmas parties come around, too,

With classmates and teachers, we join the crew.

Sometimes at school, sometimes by the shore,

Beach resorts buzzing with joy evermore.

They sip on beers, wine, soju, and more,

But I refrain, as I've done before.

I nibble on crisps and read to unwind,

Or stroll with my best mate, Watson, in mind.

When Christmas arrives, families gather with glee,

The kitchen alive with the smell of a feast-to-be.

Our mayor lends treats for each home to prepare,

So even the humble can feel Christmas there.

As midnight draws near,

Fireworks crackle from the district's heart.

Once, we could see them light up the sky,

But now the tall trees keep them apart.

We gather 'round the table,

Finally set with festive fare —

Hot cocoa, spaghetti, and ham,

Bread rolls, fried chicken, and drinks to share.

With family complete,

We cheer and chat with joyful ease.

A Christmas like that, I long for again,

But now I just hope for simple peace.

For Christmas lives within our hearts,

Its spirit far greater than all our cares.