With eyes closed and wishing for the best,
seven-year-old Anderson instead learned
his parents failed the Christmas Spirit test.
No Christmas lists for Anderson to post,
no lines to Santa to wait expectantly in,
only parents so tired they resembled dreary ghosts.
In the living room, was a skinny fake tree
which Anderson eyed - it looked as dry as toast.
They failed to notice his tears or his heart so broken,
that he wished Christmas was another time - almost.
The night moved slowly, until he drifted asleep.
Upon waking, he smelled what seemed to be Christmas.
Jumping out of bed, Anderson took a quick leap
down the stairs and, with eyes wide open,
he saw what could only be ...
a true gift of Christmas, not just a token.
In the arms of his mother, looking so small,
was a baby, newborn, cuddled up close.
Turning his head to peer through the hall,
in the kitchen was a Christmas breakfast feast
fit for a king, his family and all.
Cinnamon steeped in tea and chocolate,
and stockings hung near a very real tree!
Underneath was a small bassinet.
Did his family suddenly grow
to four from three?
"You came down just in time,"
said Anderson's mother, her voice filled with delight.
"This is your brother, a new heir in our line.
We've adopted him and he needs our love,
so he can learn, as you have so fine,
the true spirit of Christmas."
"What is his name?" Anderson couldn't help but ask.
"You tell us. Look in his eyes and hold him close,
because a name is not something you can remove like a mask."
His father added, "We've been so busy bringing him home.
You're seven years old now, and this is your Christmas task."
Anderson squealed with joy,
"This is the best Christmas day and gift.
This is much better than any old toy."
No more lonely days ahead,
Anderson's seventh Christmas
brought more happiness to his world, instead.
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