Seasons Greetings Poem by Reginald Reid

SEASONS GREETINGS
The gum trees are all swaying in the western wind that's rising.
The temperature is increasing and it's really not surprising
As for us the time is summer, compared to Bethlehem
where winter shrouds the country, and offers only cold to men.

In this burning heat of summer when the air is hot and dry,
Should we look towards the east to see his star up in the sky?
Are there wise men on their camels responding to the word?
And shepherds keeping watchful over precious sheep fold herd?

Do we expect to see an angel or perhaps a heavenly host?
Are we seeking birth of someone that all the world needs most?
Is there singing in our hearts expressing joy and thankfulness?
Do we look to a God as father who desires us all to bless?

Or do we focus on the idea of presents and the eating we enjoy,
Feeling all the better for giving a child some useless toy?
Do we spend "the joyful season" as if it will not last that long
And knowingly ignore the cause for celebration as we sing the season's songs?

At a time of quiet reflection and thankful contemplation
Try to step aside from all the celebration
Consider the babe called Jesus and what he became to mean,
born in a lowly stable, cradled in a manger, more than a nativity scene.