Christmas in Paradise

One year,  over the ocean, Santa veered  off course His reindeer were battling a hurricane  force.  As the sleigh went  spinning and spiraling around,  an  island appeared far below on the ground, dotted with palms on  a white sandy beach. Santa took heart that land was in reach. Through starlight’s glow and the light of the moon  Santa touched down — not a moment too soon.  A lavish Luau  on Lahaula mats was laid, a sumptuous feast over which a Kahuna prayed  with fish on ti leaves, tropical fruits, and eggs-fu-yung colorful flower leis were draped after being strung Pearly shells glimmered on every waving palm Ukuleles were strumming to songs sweet and calm while dancers swayed ami with soft hula hands. Santa had landed in a paradise found. His beard was snow white, his boots shiny black and he wore a red suit with a red  elfin hat.   “I’m Father Christmas,” and - I’m surprised too  that we celebrate  in much the same way as you   with peace and goodwill, and with eating and singing. ‘Mele Kalikimaka,’ is our song of greeting  As we celebrate Christmas— in island style.  On they kept strumming, and singing and drumming.   while Santa felt tempted to stay and join in.  But time was short as Christmas morning grew near.  He had sworn a duty to all he held dear.  He saw a bright star rising up in the East   The time had come - he must leave from this feast  So he readied his reindeer to take to  the stars  This was the latest —  he’d  ever been — by far   to bring toys to children all over the world  curled up in bed in their little dreamworlds.  “Come Dasher, Come  Dancer, Come Prancer and Vixen.  Come Comet, Come Cupid, Come Donner and Blitzen.”  We’ll find our way here some other midnight   “Mele Kalikimaka  to ALL -  and to ALL a Good Night.”