Where are the dreams
We once witnessed
Caught in these lights
Laid before us
Around each branch
Gently nestled
Strung across trees
Bearing bulbs?

I keep pining
For wishes long lost
After childhood’s end
Unassuming
As those innocent days
Often special
Soon yielded to life
Taking place

When seasons became
Nothing more
Than reminders of age
Always taking
Like an envious friend
Watching presents
Being opened again
That were yours

Until illness
Replaced every gift
Spending Christmas alone
Hearing laughter
Down hallways dark
Making hospitals
Feel like our home
Far away

While corners at night
Contain stars
Reflecting their glow
Rarely noticed
Off Yuletide wreaths
Shining evidence
Only can God see
Is still there

How faith persists
Despite hope
Throwing memories
Heaven will fumble
Beneath layered fears
Hiding meaning
Under thickening snow
Falling down.

• J. Pigno