BY GLORIA O’KOYE
The season to be jolly is near!
Families gather to rejoice and celebrate,
A feast of laughter and love fills the air!
A time where children jumps for joy
As schools close,
Even grown folks act childlike
For snowmen and snowball fights!
Hot cocoa and eggnog made fresh from
The pot!
Gingerbread houses and sugar cookies fill up homes,
Rum cakes and sorrel finishes as soon as it’s on sight!
A time for festive behaviour,
Movie nights and cookouts all the time
A time to spend with one another
A time to be grateful,
Just please be mindful
Of those that may not enjoy this time!
For those who lost
Loved ones and holidays feel empty,
We hear and love you!
For those who don’t believe for personal reasons,
It’s okay
We got you!
For those who have to deal with
Not-so-nice family,
We welcome you
With our homes, arms or whatever it takes
To support you!
For those out in the cold,
May we provide
Not for likes or brownie points,
But just compassion
To see you well,
Just tell us how
We won’t ask why
For those behind those walls,
We stand with you!
May letters and calls go beyond your fill
And memorable care packages bring out
Your smiles
And your mind
Outside the cells!
May you continue to better yourself
And continue to do right
Loved ones are patiently praying
And strangers who will stand by your side!
For those with reasons kept hidden
Just know you don’t have to utter a word
May peace, hope and joy overflows your cup,
And attentive ears are on standby
Whenever you want to be heard!
This is the season to be jolly,
This the season to be mindful
Because holidays may not feel the same
For everybody
Respect one another
For our uniqueness,
And we shall get
Through the season in harmony!
