Christmas, you sparkle.

From a distance you are enticing,

with your visions of lit-up trees

in snow covered woods.

Carol of bells playing over and over,

your season saturates the night.

Evenings become sad and mysterious

with their mix of childhood reminiscence

and disappointment.

Silver tinsel bells hung in doorways,

1960's party dresses,

black and white santas on video.

Cool morning light

and unwrapped presents

lined up under unlit trees on boxing day,

the silence of sipping coffee in a rocking chair.

You are Christmas.

You, who are silent with me,

and celebrating another year

of togetherness, and of separation.

All feasting and candles

and allusions of fireplaces on crispy walks,

you sparkle and crackle in my heart.