PRETEND SEASON

For tradition,
I miss a work day
to decorate and put
up a tree, pretending
that I always agree
with convention.

For family,
I battle crowds and
airport security, fake
cheery countenance,
feign surprise and
acceptance of the
unsuitable gifts.

For humanity,
I give to the hungry,
do what I can for the
hurting, and pray for
peace...all the while
drowning in a great
flood of memory...

For principles,
I make it through the
season by reminiscing
childhood Christmases,
all brimming with love
and sparkle, and Jesus
-- before pretending.

                                                © Delma Luben