A Christmas Poem writen by a Marine
 

Twas the night before Christmas, he lived all alone
In a one bedroom house made of plaster and stone.
I had come down the chimney with presents to give,
And to see just who in this home did live.
I looked all about, a strange sight I did see
No tinsel no presents, not even a tree.

No stocking by mantle, just boots filled with sand.
On the wall hung pictures of far distant lands.
With medals and badges, awards of all kinds,
A sober thought came through my mind.
For this house was different, it was dark and dreary,
I found the home of a soldier, once I could see clearly.

The soldier lay sleeping, silent, alone,
Curled up on the floor of this one bedroom home.
The face was so gentle, the room in such disorder,
Not how I pictured a United States soldier.
Was this the hero of whom I just read?
Curled up on a pocho, the floor for a bed?

I realized the families that I saw this night,
Owed their lives to these soldiers who were willing to fight.
Soon round the world, the children would play,
And grownups would celebrate a bright Christmas day.
They all enjoyed freedom each month of the year,
because of the soldiers like the one lying here.

I couldn't help wonder how many lay alone
On a cold Christmas Eve in a land far from home.
The very thought brought a tear to my eye.
I dropped to my knees and started to cry.
The soldier awakened and I heard a rough voice,
"Santa, don't cry. This life is my choice."

"I fight for freedom. I don't ask for more.
My life is my God, my country, my corps."
The soldier rolled over and drifted to sleep.
I couldn't contol it. I continued to weep.
I wept for hours, so silent and still.
And we both shivered from the cold night's chill.

I didn't want to leave, on that cold, dark night,
This guardian of honor so willing to fight.
Then the soldier rolled over with a voice soft and pure,
whispered, "Carry on, Santa, it's Christmas Day. All is secure."
One look at my watch and I knew he was right.
"Merry Christmas, my friend, and to all a good night."

Thank you. If you can read this, thank a teacher. If you are reading this in English thank the military.

Beautiful and thank you.

Beautiful poem, thanks for reminding us.

What a wonderful and meaningful poem! I'm weeping with Santa.

WooHooooooooooooo...My thoughts exactly!

I've been trying to decide where or to whom I would give to this Christmas. This poem made up my mind. I'm going to donate to a military Christmas fund.

Thanks.

Brilliant idea, poem lovely.

Beautiful Poem. i am with santa i have tears in
my eyes.

My brother just got home from Afghanastan, thank you for that!!!

Yes, and my foster daughter has just come back, as well.