I am the little ‘angel’ on the left of the manger, in our church children’s program.
CHRISTMASES PAST
Trees that twinkled with shiny bright bulbs,
multi-colored lights and hanging tinsel.
Coloring books, crayons to pass the time
while waiting for Santa on Christmas Eve.
Baby dolls scented like soft new latex
dressed in pink flannel pajamas.
Red and green ribbon we made into bows
draped from presents placed under the tree.
Sweet confections and peppermint candies,
with peanuts, apples, oranges; all wrapped
given to children in brown paper bags.
Popcorn balls, fudge, and sugar cookies
my parents made for us each year.
Christmas cards filled with tidings and cheer
mailed and received from friends far and near.
New taffeta dresses, black patent leather shoes
for Sunday services before each Christmas.
Soft white angel costumes and halos
I wore in school pageants and nativity programs.
‘Silent Night,’ and traditional carols
we sang under a cold wintry sky
‘Peace and goodwill to all the world,’
Are things I remember from Christmases past.
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Joyce E. Johnson © 2013
Reflections 