Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house,

Not a creature was stirring, but I felt like a louse!

As I gazed at the packages all in a row, I was aghast!

The tree looked bulimic due to my past.

I slumped to the floor and grabbed hold of my man,

We have only two children. There’s enough here for ten!

We stared at the swollen piles of toys

Surely this is too much for one girl and boy!

Slowly we picked through the huge bulging pile,

This one can wait for a little more while. 

One for next year, maybe one for a treat,

Whittling the stack, our eyes again meet,

We came to our senses,

We lessened the gifts.

Enough was still there

No one would get miffed!

Next year, we pledged

Will be different you’ll see

We’ll keep it in balance

When on Santa’s knee.

The season is known for its gift giving treats

But Christ was born, to sin’s great defeat.

The baby asleep in that manager so small

Would bring to us peace and joy for all.

Our children will know the true meaning of this,

A Christmas where Christ is truly our bliss.

So gather around that more sensible tree

And remember, Jesus, was born for you and for me.  

By Dr. Linda Mintle

Remember the reason for the season!