Here sitting on an old park bench,

I watched the folks walk by.

They scurried here and scurried there

for something else to buy.

Surrounded by bright colored lights

were reindeer and a sleigh.

I saw a girl searching 'round

and this I heard her say,

"I can't find Jesus anywhere.

The stable's not in view.

The shepherds should be somewhere here.

The wise men should be too.

"Where is Christmas?  Where is Christmas?"

she came to me and asked.

To answer her great question seemed

a hopeless, futile task.

I thought awhile before reply.

I hoped it would suffice.

I felt so dumb and speechless but

I offered this advice.

"You can't find Christmas in the mall

or here along the street.

And Christmas isn't green or red.

All that is just deceit.

"Impressed, I am, how smart you are.

You question everything.

I'm glad you know of Jesus' birth

and why the church bells ring.

"No, Christmas isn't what they think

and these folks must admit -

if Christmas isn't in their hearts,

they'll simply never find it."

She stood there quiet for a bit,

then turned and walked away.

She walked in thought quite slowly, so

I prayed she was okay.

I hoped I didn't puzzle her

or tear her dreams apart...

But then she turned, called back to me,

"I have a great big heart!"

I didn't see her after that

but knew she'd be okay.

This bench and I hold memories

as others run astray.

©2016 louis gander