Unchained

Every Christmas, I write a new poem as my gift to friends and family. I have so many that I love and want to remember, I could never afford to buy something for everyone. So a poem, it is.

Unchained is from last year, but it feels like the one I want to share right now. May you all have a blessed new year in 2025!

Unchained

Close your eyes,

can you feel it?

That indistinguishable... something

that pervades the air.

This- something- lifts the hearts of Man.

It wheedles its way around pain and anger,

reaching as deep as the soul

to let you know it's there.

Like air, you cannot see it.

But like a breeze,

its gentle fingers stroke your skin,

letting you know it cares.

This intangible something

breathes better at this time of year

because people loosen their grip;

their too firm hold on fear.

Perhaps it's the lights?

The gentle, barely there color by day,

but beacon by night.

Their cheery glow draws every stare.

Perhaps it's the giving?

Thoughts of what can be done for others

temporarily replace the self-centered 'I'.

People more readily take a knee in prayer.

In what ever form this- something- comes to you,

nurture it.

It deserves to live a full, happy life.

It is the unraveling thread to every snare.

It is the lifeblood of peace;

the illuminator of minds;

the reliever of sorrow,

and should live in every town square.

When it knocks at your heart

do not be afraid to open it,

for whatever it may take from you,

it always leaves more than enough to share.

~ Hope ~

For God so loved the world.