Sombering and sad, Fee. I'm not sure why we allow this. Thanks for this honest piece. Hugs,
Sheila

Sometimes us poets see things way to clearly, but our honesty sometimes clears things for others otherwise would never have been noted at all.
I felt the tears as I read. You know that not my norm. You left me with a much further reach of truth.

Lisa

And every year without fail it happens!
Much to ponder or act upon as one can only do. Ty Santa Fee xx
Cherrypie

Fee, you strike at the heart with this so truthful presentation of what mankind has become. If only more would take notice and try to help...

Be always safe,
Karen

Cold slap of reality here. Brilliant. Liz

Here's a write to put one's life into perspective. But for the Grace of God, there could be any of us. Wishing everyone a safe and wonderful Holiday season. LadyJ

The picture alone makes me weep and how well your gut-wrenching and heart-searing words amplify and complement it, Felix. Our rampant greed and materialism has FCUKed up society good and proper.... yet let us not be discouraged from doing what little we perhaps can where and when we can, otherwise we shall be overwhelmed by feelings of complete and utter hopelessness and our humanity will die within us. Your words compel us to not only see but act. Yours is a voice in the current political and social wilderness. You and so many others keep telling it like it is, so that all remain necessarily uncomfortable and provoked. God knew what He was doing by putting Himself into the filth of a stable... it's the Church that has sanitised it and become blind to it's meaning. Christmas is becoming increasingly hollow without it's true meaning at the centre of it all. I wonder what would happen if we were to give in aid the equivalent amount that we spend on ourselves/family/friends? It's a mind-boggling thought. Bless you, Pops. Your mind and heart are ever with the dispossessed and alone. xx

Well done Fee. I was thinking as I read this about a man who was sitting on a chair beside a small table just outside the door of our church the other day. The pastor's wife brings him coffee and food and that is fine. But does anyone stop to talk to him, to wish him a good day, to offer a warm hug? I didn't see any of that. We said hello, and that is all. We often give him lifts in to town but we didn't give him any encouragement that day and it saddens me. Here he was, open to recieve and we didn't give. Shame on us.

With your words you do those less fortunate good. I know my fellow Bards here hsve some of the most compassionate and tenderest hearts in this world. This sad poem is the truth for many all over this world. If each of us helps one person then , with our help, some will enjoy the season. I wish we could trade a politician for each poor and destitute insividual. Things would change like in amazing force then.
Blessings and love,
Susan

poignant words to ponder

This is a terrible season for the less fortunate and neglected, whose numbers swell by the day. Excellent capture Felix. Patrick

so many readings throughout the den
& my visits to the VA hospital in Milwaukee
where the quad/para(s) spend their holidays or
even years & more...(fortunate by some means of it all to have nursing staff & shelter & food)
I still feel ashamed somehow...
When ones life seems so terrible
or strife so undefeatable we all should really
still count the continuums of our blessings
& Love being the foundation for all of it...
Much Love & Blessings Fee
Vickie

Desperation drives sadness and depression. Feelings of hoplessness not only during the holidays but everyday, abound in a world gone mad over oil
I thank God for a warm place and food on my table this Christmas.

~W~

There are so many that are suffering. But, Fee, it has been going on for some time now. I know people really open up their eyes at Christmas, because we all want it to be a special time for everyone. The cruel fact is, that life does not stop just because it's Christmas.
It is only more evident how many people are truly not living well.

Your poem is a sad reality check.
Hope your days and nights are calm and peaceful. Much peace, love, and light, dear Santa Fee, you just care so much!
Amber

Tragic truth every single word, Fee. It get discouraging at this time of the year especially, because I know people are spending thousands on gifts...while the poor have no hope....unfortunately we can only do so much...and it could never be enough....well penned, my friend!

Anna

To many of us it is a F**ked up mess. No money, no job, house being foreclosed on, cars repossessed, nothing for our damaged minds, no insurance, no one cares, no one wants to be "reminded", no one has the time... no hope.

But, there are people who understand and though they cannot offer money or a physical hug - they are there for you nonetheless. People who think of you, pray for you, and invite you in to their virtual world. You see, Fee - you are in good company. Love you, Teresa

*tears* the only thing I can give - peace on earth, goodwill to men? Only select ones, or to make you feel good - the rest of the year, bah HUMbugs, get away from me. :( Know how this is, hits uncomfortably close to home. Sad one, Santa.

(((HUGS))) and love, Karla.

more truth than fiction within your words. sad, but true.
Hugs, Kathy

I used to consider, "There but for the grace of God...go I." That famous quote.
But now I can clearly see- if there was grace of God- nobody would go there.
Some like to argue about choices and free will- but those you mention above had no choices- there are so many abused children- so many sick and infirm- disabled- forgotten human beings who have given themselves in selfless service.
I give my son freedoms- but I won't stand by and watch him suffer needlessly- or starve to death.
My only answer to any of this is that I can make a difference- as tiny as it may be- and I offer that up to whatever powers that be- with no expectations.
Goodness for reward is not goodness at all- so Heaven and Hell are meaningless attempts to control human behavior- but when I can make a difference- that tiny dent- Heaven seems to be my consequence.
This season can put a spot light on our fragile human condition, and people like you do know how to paint smiles on the faces of children.

All good wishes- Santa.

John

And we should cry for our soldiers brothers that aren't yet dead or homeless, as the only ones, apart from their families, that will ever care.
A sad bunch of words to point how the world didn't just lost its innocence but its compassion as well.

Georg

Riveting reminder

EXCELLENT!!!!!!!!!! Liana Margiva

So very, very sad.

Merry F'ing Christmas, indeed, Santa Fee! So sad and heartbreaking; powerful write!

(((HUGS))) and much love, your friend in Tx., Karen Lynn. :( *tears!*

So heartbreaking Felix but all too often this is what's going on , for some reason this time of year more than other times. Tis the season to be Loving, Kind and considerate of others, People seem to forget the rest of the year.
A wonderful way to remind people of how lucky they are.

Love ya face Cuz XOXOXO, Rose

Fee, this is so heartbreaking...you brought tears to my eyes.