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On the poor side of the city,
there’s an innocent child crying.
The rats and roaches are crawling,
on the bed where he lies dying.

There’s a family of seven,
just trying to scrounge a dollar.
So they can buy a Christmas feast,
made of bread and peanut butter.

Mother has given up all hope,
and her children have no wishes.
The only gift she’s got to share,
are some hugs and Christmas kisses.

But hugs don’t fill empty stomachs,
of the children on Christmas morn.
When the snow blows in through the cracks,
Christmas kisses won’t keep them warm.

The next time you spend a fortune,
on another unwanted toy.
Drop some coins into the kettle,
for those who have no hope or joy.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2023

Poem

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Sands Avatar
September 25, 2023 at 12:53 PM
This is so important and kind. A great message written in your poem Jerry. Thanks for sharing :)
Brotherton Avatar
September 26, 2023 at 5:57 AM
Thank you, Heidi.
Lawless Avatar
September 25, 2023 at 12:08 PM
We celebrate the birth and death of One.....while walking pst the others....
Brotherton Avatar
September 26, 2023 at 5:56 AM
So true John. I think one of the problems is the nightly news. All you see is Trump did this and Biden did that. Most people never see the back side of life.
Empress Avatar
September 25, 2023 at 11:52 AM
This is so deeply moving! I felt this poem so much. So sad i wish this world would be a better place for all: and easy one too, but thats just wishful thinking. I really feel sad seeing hunger and children suffering and especially during festive seasons. Ah! The way you’ve delivered that is so soul hitting! Really this is a fave. A great reminder to all
Brotherton Avatar
September 26, 2023 at 5:49 AM
When I think of the amount of food that gets thrown away into the trash or the crops left dying in the fields...makes me want to scream.
Andresen Avatar
September 25, 2023 at 11:17 AM
- You describe a "picture" that I see every year, Jerry ... my heart cries ... unimaginable how much money we spend on useless things ... a shame ... - no one can live on kisses and hugs - A simple but powerful poem - hugs
Brotherton Avatar
September 26, 2023 at 5:44 AM
Most people do not really see what life is like beyond their own fenced in yard.
Allison Avatar
September 25, 2023 at 11:03 AM
A timely reminder to help those in need not only with the festive season approaching but throughout the year. well penned Jerry:-) hugs Jan xx
Brotherton Avatar
September 26, 2023 at 5:41 AM
Thank you Jan. There are so many people in need throughout the world.
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