Christmas Airs

So long ago he can scarce remember

recall where or how it all began

clock hands revolve five minutes slow

calendar days he marked with x’s in red

radio static still sings Patsy Cline

and his heart ponders reasons why

The tree a cast off white plastic wonder

ornamental odd and ends of Christmas past

He watches out the cracked front window

battle of the snow trying to whitewash grime

while the church bells ring in perfect rhythm

and his heart ponders the reasons why

She places a hand upon his shoulder

wrinkled lips tasting love’s old memories

whispered words that speak of promise

Absorbine Junior heals arthritis aches

the warmth of her smile combats winter chills

and he remembers the reasons why…