As the Choir Sings

we all gather as if strung in rows outside the church sad chatter and echoes of cries fill the air as music plays in the distance the wreaths all neatly placed with red bows line the aisles as we walk onward like little toy soldiers guided there's a tree off to the side for christmas eve silver bell services in front of the alter a casket awaits our tears scattered around every turn of this journey are memories in frames that hold the only smiles while the choir sings inaudible songs to pass the time we embrace the past with the present as we stare at a lifeless body pressing our lips against death yet again as december's breath chills us from within we are falling down like trees beneath the weight of winter shattered and broken the same as icicles pierce our hearts we walk outside with downcast eyes following another to their final resting place beneath the barren soil blind to the displays of christmas cheer looming all around us as we place a rose atop the casket then clasp our hands in silent prayers there is no spirit here again this year.... written 12/15/2019 Darker Side of Christmas Poetry Contest Judged 01/15/2020 Take the Dagger Out Contest Sponsored by Dear Heart