Christmas Eve Poem by Dorothy Sinha

The nip in the air bites into my skin
I snuggle closer to him
“Santa's in town”
says grandpa
folding me in his gown
Wrapped in his smell
I can feel the warmth swell

“Santa comes riding a sleigh
His bag filled with goodies
heavy to weigh
He sings Ho Ho Ho
showers gifts on the go

But there's a catch
He only gifts
whom he deems fit
Have you been good all year,
My dear? '
he added with a wink


“Santa,
I live down the road
where it tapers from being broad
where stops the bus
beside the flowering eucalyptus

I hang my stockings
anticipating
your knock
Tonight, I wear my favorite frock
By my bed
I ‘ve laid
cookies for you
also, coffee for a hot brew
You must be cold
have to travel the world
over a single night
such a schedule tight”

As long as I could
Near the chimney I stood
Wondering if he would
drop by
At times, heard Him laugh
Perhaps, I wasn't good enough
crestfallen, at last I crept
onto my bed
and wept

I awoke to find a gift
a small teddy
cuddly
by my bed
He had left a note last night
Santa knows me! I shouted in delight

'Always be the good girl
that you've always been
Ate your cookies
the cup’s also clean
My child, you were asleep so did not wake
left you a merry Christmas cake
Share it with others your joys will double
Remember my words even in trouble'

Years later, christmas eve again
The family’s together for a change
We drink and make merry
bake a yummy cake with a cherry

Tonight as I go to sleep
A picture, close I keep
Secretly, again, I weep

Delirious, I have a dream
See Santa, in a gleam
Remember my words he says
The world tonight only prays
begging for a gift, a blessing
to satisfy their constant craving
In the name of christmas, indulge in vice
Child, do remember my advice
As Santa comes closer, he smells nice
Behold! it’s grandpa in disguise