I wrote this poem in 2018, the last time my family enjoyed Christmas lunch all together in one place. I added the final verse this week. Even when the best plans are put in place, Christmas Day can present challenges getting the family together or getting along with everyone who has been invited. We want the day to run smooth and happy on this special day of the year. Sometimes it does and sometimes it doesn’t. That’s family life – full of pleasant surprises and challenges.
Christmas Day 2021, is shaping up to be disappointing for my family. My dad, 91 years of age and in an Aged Care Nursing home, could be in lockdown due to the rapid spread of the new strain of Covid. Although my family are all vaccinated, our loved ones in Aged Care facilities will more than likely go back into lockdown. As they go into lockdown, many families are being reunited for the first time in months or for some years due to Covid travel restrictions. Over the last few years, Christmas Day has proven messy for many families. But we continue with our plans as best we can in the circumstances that we are in at the time. Cause that’s what families do. Beverley Joy.
Another Christmas comes and goes
Our family spread from Coast to Coast
We’ll share Christmas lunch in Australian style
Cold drinks, salad and deserts in the summertime.
My brother and wife, we don’t see them much
As they live a ten-hour drive away
But we’ll eat and chat when we catch up
This Christmas Day together in one place.
Mum’s ill health and operations
Dad’s knees are weak and keep failing him
They’re growing old and we must accept
This Christmas may be the last one we share with them.
Our children are healthy and busy
They live independent spread throughout the city
But Christmas Day, we’ll relax and enjoy their company
And remember when we had such youthful energy.
The grandkids run about and play
With Christmas presents, they have received
Their childish chatter, smiles and cries
Keep the adults attentive to their needs.
Christmas Day can be perfect or messy
Satisfying or disappointing, memorable or forgettable
Either way, tradition draws families together
To share the day, each family in their unique way.
Beverley Joy © 2018 of Simply Story Poetry
Why not listen to my other poem about Family Christmas: Far Away For Christmas and my poems about gift-giving: A Hug is Priceless, The Best Gift is You and A Mirror Reflect What You Can Give.
You can listen to all my poems on several podcast platforms here
Simply Story Poetry 
Leave a Reply