Missing You at Christmas

There’ll be one missing Christmas,
one place at table—bare,
one smiling face we’ll yearn for
knowing you’re not there.

Some presents left beneath the tree
after all have been passed out,
with pretty ribbons posed atop—
heartfelt gifts, no doubt.

Voices soft, diminished,
we’ll sing a Christmas song—
next year we’ll hope is easier
for you haven’t been gone long.

We’ll cherish Christmas memories—
those times shared in the past.
It’s all we have to remember you,
so we’ll have to make them last.

The joy of your great laughter
as the children gathered ‘round—
your spirit more like Peter Pan
in revelry and sound.

The snow outside—light falling,
of which you were so fond—
swift on skis and snowboard,
fast skating on the pond.

Cozy by a crackling fire
we’ll surely quiet sit,
recalling times your lengthy frame
stretched there in front it.

We’ll have to gather all our strength,
to be of one accord,
knowing you are safe with Him—
spending Christmas with our Lord.