A Christmas Letter

I'm not overly fond of receiving a family's annual gushing story, In the form of a Christmas Letter stating that all is hunky-dory. I received one the other day in which they told the honest truth, And I'll relay its contents though of me it may be somewhat uncouth! "My son Jimmy who was in the army gave a sergeant a lot of sass, And was unceremoniously invited to leave the service by the army brass! Daughter Sarah became in a 'family way' bringing me much disgrace. The father of the kid left the state and of him there is not a trace!" "Son Robert attempted to rob a bank and now languishes in jail. The judged sentenced him to twenty years sans the benefit of bail. My husband up and left me for that hussy waitress at Joe's Cafe. That left me with little money, having to keep bill-collectors at bay!" "My sister fell on hard times and moved in with her three little brats. She also brought along three hounds, a nasty parrot and two hissing cats! My trusty old 85 Chevy blew a rod and left me without wheels; I can't afford another car because of outrageously high-priced deals!" She goes on to say, "I hope all has gone well at your house this year. As you can see, this past year ain't been one for me of great cheer!" I appreciated her honesty but found her dismal plight quite appalling. Her letter left me quite bereft and before you know it, I started bawling! Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired