The Hidden Goodness of Kind Souls

I didn't want anyone
to have a sad Christmas,
so I roamed Manhattan's star-decorated streets,
where many a homeless weeps...
where was I to find that someone,
if not in that corner where a barrel fire was?


By God's grace, I found that unhappy person in ragged clothes
to give my four presents to,
ending the drama of his woe
by bringing coat, shoes, gloves and a long scarf
to erase the misery of a beggar whose cold night was rough;
he widely smiled when I leaned forward and offered him my gifts!


Bewildered folks wearing the latest fashion attire, did not have
the decency of stooping down and give him a single quarter,
and doing so they killed the Christmas' spirit entirely...
a generous spirit well-known in this city;  yes, my anger
could have made me lash out at them with indignation,
but realizing how greedy people can be withholding love:
I gasped in relief to discover a creche of our Savior so cheery 
along the festive Fifth Avenue to get rid of my frustration!


What I found there was a Heaven-inspired sight
of gleaming angel's hovering the stable announcing Christ's glorious birth... 
while beneath bang-pipers and trumpets players, glowing with mirth, 
accompanied the youngest choir singing, "Holy Night."
Perhaps venturing out in the cold of the wealthiest city,
gave me the opportunity to realize the hidden goodness of kind souls
that give away their humble presents in various forms,
not expecting anything in return...but rejoice in the delightful sound of harmony.

Copyright © | Year Posted 2010



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Date: 11/26/2010 8:07:00 PM
Andrew, if this is for the contest, it should do very very well. You are in top form in this writing of the true spirit of Christmas. Luv, Andrea
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Date: 11/26/2010 10:58:00 AM
God bless you for helping this poor soul find some comfort in warm clothing. We need more good Samaritans like you whom we can emulate by example. Isn't it ironic how people where celebrating Christ's birth in your last verse while paying no heed to the plight of others. Another favorite from a brilliant, inspiring writer. Thanks so much for this treasure -- it brought tears to my eyes. Love and blessings, Carolyn
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Date: 11/22/2010 10:09:00 AM
Most touching, Andrew. It's hard to pass by someone in need and not care..yet, I want to believe most do because there focus is somewhere else...we pray that we all will see Christ in everyone, especially the poor around us first and then those far away. God bless and Happy Thanksgiving. Love, Audrey
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