In the style of Clement Clarke Moore ‘Twas a run before Christmas, and all over town, Not a sidewalk was shoveled, I feared falling down; The roads were all covered with salt laden slush, Navigation would be slow, I knew I couldn’t rush. Darkness was looming, ‘though it was just after four, I laced my Sauconys and hurried out the door; I adjusted my headband and pulled on my gloves, There wasn’t an accessory I hadn’t thought of. The driveway was covered with fresh fallen snow, The onset of twilight cast a wintery glow; I gazed at the heavens, took a breath of fresh air, Smiled to myself, and said a quick prayer. Hastening out to the street, prepared for my run, In just over an hour, I knew I’d be done; Large flakes of snow drifted down from the sky, I stuck out my tongue, but got hit in the eye. I started out slowly, not wanting to fall, As one careless step would conclude in a sprawl; I was grateful to locate a track on the street, To provide a reliable path for my feet. Several blocks later, I settled into my pace, I began to relax, I sensed no need to race; My mind started to wander, I felt quite content, Reflecting upon the true meaning of Advent. Rounding a corner, I jogged past a school, Decorations gave hint to the upcoming Yule; Snowflakes and reindeer, Santa in his sleigh, Snowmen and snow forts–signs of children at play. I turned to the east, headed down toward the lake, Enamored by the beauty of every snowflake; Gazing over the water, I noticed a light, Providing a beacon in the darkness of night. Enveloped in silence, I heard not a sound, ‘cept the squeak of the snow, as my shoes met the ground; The tranquil surroundings filled my body with peace, Affording my mind a much needed release. Multi-colored lights adorned bushes and trees, While white sparkling icicles hung from the eaves; An excessive display overwhelmed a front yard, The gaudiness of which I could not disregard. Snowmen in snow globes, Mickey and Minnie mouse, Penguins in stocking hats, Snoopy atop his house; A “heavenly” choir singing “O Holy Night”, Monstrous canes of candy, striped in red and white. I entered a park with less than a mile to go, The majestic old oaks were laden with snow; Darkness engulfed me, but my fears did allay, Moonbeams parted the clouds, and guided my way. ‘Twas then I saw it, out the corner of my eye, The meaning of Christmas, this object did imply; Nestled away in the far corner of a yard, Was a symbol I held in the highest regard. A stable, a manger, surrounded by hay, And in that rustic manger, a sweet baby lay; A bright twinkling star shone from Heaven above, Reminding us all that Christmas is love.
Karen Hovie Writes 