Gregory Richard Barden Poet Free verse

Notes About The Poem

Christmas Angel, Lost

It's Christmas Eve ...

Such a beautiful one, too
Big snow flakes drifting down
The street and house lit up outside
And Momma ... Momma's in the kitchen

She's cooking like crazy, as she always does
Radio playing carols and silly Santa songs
And her singing along, as she prepares a meal to admire
Oh, she's an amazing cook, and Christmas Eve is her time to shine

Thanksgiving and Easter, too, but tonight is the "Big One"
It always has been for us, and her preparations, the cherry on top
Baking pies and cookies and turkey and real pudding
Squash and turnip and mash potatoes

Gravy, stuffing, yam puffs, peas, beans ...
You name it, she has perfected them ALL
But the singing, the joy, the sparkle in her eye
That's connected to one primary thing ...

My brother, home from the service
He's been a Marine for many years now
But somehow he has always made it home for the holidays
Momma depends on it, you see, and he knows that

So ... he always finagles his "leave" so Christmas Eve is Momma's
He always has, and she counts on it like the sun
And THIS year will be the grandest yet
She has truly outdone herself with cooking and decorations

And she even sold some of her favorite jewelry
Just to buy a special dress ... a beautiful Christmas dress
But as I listen to her singing along with the radio
A tear stains my face, and a lump catches in my throat

You see, I just received a telegram
My brother, the light in Momma's eyes, has been killed in action
And he won't be home this year ... or any
Oh, if I could but trade my life, I would

Just so I wouldn't have to be the one
The one who has to tell my dear Momma
That her blessed baby boy -
Her Christmas angel ...

Is gone.



~ 1st Place ~  in the "Sad Christmas" Poetry Contest, Dear Heart, Judge & Sponsor.

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Anne-Lise Andresen December 17, 2018 at 2:50 AM - Many factors can make Christmas an extra heavy time, Gregory - Congratulations on your winning poem - Merry Christmas to you :) - hugs // Anne-Lise :) Gregory Richard Barden December 17, 2018 at 6:08 AM Indeed, you are correct - it's a very emotional time for so many, and suicide always rises this time of year, sadly ... makes me appreciate the simple pleasures and loved ones all the more. Blessings, my friend! :-) <3

Connie Marcum Wong December 16, 2018 at 7:50 PM This gave me chills Greg. It deserves its top placement! Congratulations my friend. This stirred emotions of empathy for momma.xxoo Gregory Richard Barden December 17, 2018 at 6:07 AM That's so sweet of you, Connie, and I greatly appreciate the wonderful comments - blessings, My Friend! :-) <3

Constance La France December 16, 2018 at 5:38 PM Gregory, congratulations on your win in my contest with this emotional write, it truly touched my heart, well done ~ Gregory Richard Barden December 17, 2018 at 6:06 AM Thank you SO much, Constance - this really made my day, and put a much-needed smile on my face! Blessings to you, Friend! :-) <3

Darlene De Beaulieu December 15, 2018 at 2:24 PM Hello Gregory, yes it is a sad poem, but your brother will always be with you in your heart and memories. have a nice evening my friend. Gregory Richard Barden December 17, 2018 at 6:05 AM Thank you so much, Darlene, I'm glad you liked it, friend! :-) <3