With Thanks to Mr. Clement

'Twas four days until Christmas, and all were asleep,

Except for dear Mama, who tried not to peep.

She crept through the halls, finding boxes just the right shape,

Paper, ribbon, and scissors-- and WHERE IS THAT TAPE?

Awake well past midnight three nights in a row,

She smiled as she tied the very last bow.

"Now Christmas can come," she said with a quick impish grin.

"I've finished preparing and shopping--Let the fun trickle in!"

She fell to her knees right next to her bed 

(the very last thing before matching pillow to head)--

"Dear Lord up above, please help me remember and keep close to my heart 

Not the presents and trinkets and fresh apple tart,

"Remind me to read them the story divine--

You know which one--a mother and father and the Baby of Thine.

"Remind me to teach them because of Him not a small sheep has been lost,

And we all have been saved at such a high cost."

"Amen," whispered Mama as she crawled into bed,

But as visions of sugar plums swirled round in her head,

She quickly and quietly uttered to no one around,

"Merry Christmas to all, may His Spirit abound."

In all of the excitement and fun of these last few days, may you remember the true meaning of this beautiful season.

Merry Christmas