This Christmas Poem by Maria Sharon Moemise

This Christmas
Sharon Moemise

Christmas Day we'll pump up the beat
Then baste our turkey, and bathe in the heat
How I wish this time for a bit of rain or snow
In my country, Africa, it's midsummer, though

My Christmas tree is made of dry sticks
It's decorated with anything from twigs to bricks
No colorful lights, just African stars
And a prayer for those fighting our wars

No eggnog, with cinnamon, just good ol' ginger beer
All kinds of cooking smells to feel the festive cheer
A lot of food to feed more than a town's family
And a pint of love to complete Christmas's hospitality

Toys for the kids who can afford to have some
Father Christmas provides for those who have none
Our Christmas traditions differ, whether friend or foe
But the kiss of love exists for all under the mistletoe.