Memories Of Christmas Past Poem by samuel aragone

Now Christmas has come round again
No one knows how many we get my friend
But as we count down our three score and ten
There probably isn't too many more then

So ignore the bustling crowds don't get riled
If you get the finger give them a smile
Let us slow down this world a while
And dream again of Christmas as a child

And you are back on a calmer earth
Presents cost little but were of great worth
And you weren't judged by what you bought
The most precious gift was just the thought

The sizzling summers seemed twice as long
And you actually enjoyed the shopping throng
Everyone seemed calm and in good cheer
You seemed to be happy year after year

But that was simply just because
The worries of the world weren't yours
It was our parents that were battling then
And it was they doing the worrying friend

And they must have done splendid job
For everyone at your house would lob
And the door was open with great cheer
The fridge was stacked with food and beer

For the children it always seemed such a great day
Despite the sloppy kisses of old aunt Rae
Hot as it was there was no air-conditioning then
Inevitably some kid turned the hose on them

My father would curse my mum would yell
But there was no animosity that I could tell
Everyone seemed full of laughter and joy
Yes this was Christmas when I was a boy

Now it's our turn to put on the show
And I intend to do the best I know
I'll turn back the clock for just a day
Celebrating Christmas the old fashioned way

When the relo's arrive I'll welcome them in
Those I can't abide I'll give them a grin
And I will do my best to ignore
The ubiquitous know all bore

And I'll ensure the kids treasure all the day
I want them to be happy come what may
Providing a day of tranquility and peace
So that even their little hearts can be at ease

When everyone leaves I hope that they'll take
Some left over chicken maybe some cake
Above all I hope they leave with love and cheer
And a little bit of calmness to face the new year

When my years are over and I've reached the end
And it is my children doing the hosting then
I hope they'll remember back with a smile
To at least one special Christmas as a child

As I remember now with just a tear
My parent's patience year after year
And our house so full of love and food
Though poor it was the richest childhood

But they like Christmas past have gone
And my memories fade as time moves on
But some things will never wither away
Such as the memory of a childhood Christmas day.