A Christmas Hope

I'm fortunate enough to have a friend who is also a fine poet.  He writes verse all during the year.  But every year around this season, there's always something special. 

His latest is "A Christmas Hope."  This was published in our church program this past Sunday, but deserves to be read by more than just our Presbyterian friends.  It evokes vivid images of Christmas past, and inspires belief in the future.  It's what this special season is all about.  I think you'll enjoy it.  It's printed here with permission.

A Christmas Hope

by Reed Blakeney

It's strange to see you now, old friend
I hardly knew your face
There was a time when we would spend
Long hours at your place

Do you remember Christmas Eve
In nineteen fourty-four?
That's when old Jessie had to leave
And go away to war

But you and I were under age
Not old enough to fight
We acted on the high school stage
And knew we'd be all right

For hope was in our corner when
our boys were true and strong
This war would end all evil, then
The nations would get along

Hope was high as battles won
Created much speculation
The war would end and a soldier son
Would get an earned vacation

It's strange the way it all worked out
Since that Christmas long ago
We wonder what it's all about
But we still have much to show

For yes, we've taught Democracy
To nations across the world
We wanted people to be free
We marched with flag unfurled

What do you think, old friend of mine -
This Christmas, two thousand and eight?
I'll treat you to a glass of wine
And set the record straight

It's love that makes the world go 'round
It's hate that turns it sour
There's still much joy to be found
In every Christmas hour

Let's drink a toast to you and me
And good friends we remember
We've lived a long time, don't you see
And hope lives each December