“Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse . . . . ” ~ Samuel Clement Moore

“The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there . . .” Actually, the stockings are in my bedroom packed with things ready to hang up in the morning.

“The children were nestled all snug in their beds, while visions of sugar plums danced in their heads” More likely they are on their phones playing games or snapping their friends.

“When Ma in her kerchief and I in my cap had just settled down for a long winter’s nap . . . .” Please define “long winter’s nap” because I’m averaging 4-5 hours of sleep a night.

“When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter . . . .” Not to worry, it was just the neighbor down the street, revving his engine (sorely in need of a muffler)

“Away to the window I flew like a flash, tore open the shutters and threw up the sash . . . ” Not happening in this house, all the windows are painted shut.

“The moon on the breast of the new fallen snow, gave a lustre of midday to objects below . . . ” Kids? I don’t think we’re in Alabama anymore if there’s that much snow on the ground.

Obviously the famous poem does not fit our current situation, and anyone landing a sleigh on my roof or trying to scoot down my chimney would be shot. However, the last line of the poem remains despite the cultural climate we live in.

Happy Christmas to all and to all a Good Night!

I’m hoping and praying everyone has a blessed Christmas with family and friends. If you are on duty working a job that cannot shut down for the holidays, stay safe, stay warm and God bless!!