RHP

RHP User

F48

Christmas wishes I wanted to share

December 09 2010

I must be in a sentimental mood today - who knows...anyway I was cleaning out my email when I came across this lovely one that I felt the need to share: The Night Before Christmas T'was the night before Christmas,He lived all alone, In a one bedroom house, Made of plaster and stone. I had come down the chimney,With presents to give, And to see just who, In this home did live. I looked all about,A strange sight I did see, No tinsel, no presents, Not even a tree. No stocking by the mantle,Just boots filled with sand, On the wall hung pictures, Of far distant lands. With medals and badges,Awards of all kinds, A sober thought, Came through my mind. For this house was different,It was dark and dreary, I found the home of a soldier, Once I could see clearly. The soldier lay sleeping, Silent, alone, Curled up on the floor, In this one bedroom home. The face was so gentle,The room in such disorder, Not how I pictured, an Australian and New Zealand soldier.. Was this the hero, Of whom I'd just read? Curled up on a poncho, The floor for a bed? I realized the families,That I saw this night, Owed their lives to these soldiers, Who were willing to fight. Soon round the world,The children would play, And grownups would celebrate a bright Christmas Day. They all enjoyed freedom,Each month of the year, Because of the soldiers, Like the one lying here. I couldn't help wonder,How many lay alone, On a cold Christmas Eve, In a land far from home. The very thought brought A tear to my eye, I dropped to my knees, And started to cry. The soldier awakened, And I heard a rough voice, 'Santa, don't cry.This life is my choice. I fight for freedom,I don't ask for more, My life is my God, My country, my corps.' The soldier rolled over,And drifted to sleep, I couldn't control it, I continued to weep. I kept watch for hours,So silent and still, And we both shivered, From the cold night's chill. I didn't want to leave,On that cold, dark night, This guardian of honor, So willing to fight. Then the soldier rolled over,With a voice, soft and pure, Whispered, 'Carry on Santa, It’s Christmas Day, all is secure.' One look at my watch,And I knew he was right, 'Merry Christmas my friend, And to all a good night.' This poem was written by a peace keeping soldier stationed overseas. Christmas will be coming soon and some credit is due to our Australian and New Zealand and other countries service men and women for our being able to celebrate these Festivities. Let's try in this small way to pay a tiny bit of what we owe. Make People stop and think of our heroes, living and dead, who sacrifice themselves for us. Just a little something to think about as we go hunting for those last minute CHristmas gifts. Kisses Focus

Comments

  • kassmebits

    kassmebits

    15 years ago

    Having a loved one serving overseas, he is strong in my thoughts especially at Christmas time. Thanks Focus for the thought and sentiment. xx Hugs Kass

  • RHP

    RHP User

    15 years ago

    nicely said focus roxxy...merry christmas all

  • RHP

    RHP User

    15 years ago

    Brings tears to my eyes and a lump in the throat. Just reminds us that it is not all about the commercialsation and gift giving. It is the spirit.

  • RHP

    RHP User

    15 years ago

    Quoting 'kassmebits' Having a loved one serving overseas, he is strong in my thoughts especially at Christmas time. Thanks Focus for the thought and sentiment. xx Hugs Kass Like yourself who have a family member or close friend serving overseas..my thoughts and wishes go to you and your family... Kisses Focus

  • RHP

    RHP User

    15 years ago

    From an ex RAAF'y I say a prayer for your safe return and raise a glass on Chrissie day in salute.

  • RHP

    RHP User

    15 years ago

    FSS THAT MADE ME CRYyes its true they never get enough recognition.....not that they ask for itthey are our true herosour thoughts and prays are with them and their families that they return home safe SOONMERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALLNow wheres that mistletoe....I need a smoochin and hug

  • RHP

    RHP User

    15 years ago

    hosnestly i dont think the young ones of today think enough of those that serve to protect our way of life ....... I have 2 nephews serving at the moment and have lostcousins uncles and grand uncles in wars past ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, I share a moment each day in silence with those that have gone and hope my moment is not going to be filled with those serving now . merry christmas to all who serve ANDY XXX

  • RHP

    RHP User

    15 years ago

    Quoting 'mscurious68'Now wheres that mistletoe....I need a smoochin and hug I am standing under it hun arms wide open ready to give you that hug for me I have a few very dear and old friends in the armed forces am luck enough not to have any family members to worry about as well but do sympathise with those who do...I am fortunate that NON of mine are deployed at the moment (in comparison to last year) and can ease my heart a little however Andy speaks the truth when he says that the young just dont kwo - unless it effects them personally then many dont recognise the sacrifce that not only they (the serving members) make but also their families Kisses Focus

  • kassmebits

    kassmebits

    15 years ago

    Can it be a group hug???

  • RHP

    RHP User

    15 years ago

    Great post Focus... too many times people do not consider those that serve and protect our way of life. hugs and xx to all at this festive time of year Wayne x

  • RHP

    RHP User

    15 years ago

    To all serviong troops who sacrifice your christmas days etc to preserve our way of life thankyou seems little enough to show the gratitude we feel but so often take for granted......So wherever you are from this aussie girl thankyou and raise a glass in gratitude to you and memory for those who wont ever be back for christmas..... xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx