The Greatest Gifts: Christmas poem, 2019

The Greatest Gifts The greatest gifts at Christmastime Lie not in package or a box; Nor bought with dollar or a dime And not confined to doors and locks. No, not on wheels — a shiny car Whose engine boasts a mighty scream; No, not from clothes from places far; From beauty? Just a dashing dream. From drink? Escape or empty high? A blur or boost for wounded soul? A taste unreal, a liquid lie Cannot commit to make one whole. From “love” with one, perhaps a night; A search, a hope to soothe the heart Can for a moment bring a light, But for a life be partial part. Outside the heart, outside the mind, A person, wish, a thing, a place; To seek for such? Mistaken kind That leaves the seeker sorrow space. What then, oh what brings happiness? What lingers on to greater length? What moves to more instead of less And sweetens life with joy and strength? A heart whose satisfaction lies In gifts that money cannot buy; From treasures given from the Skies, From moments that will never die. From pouring life from one to one, Investing wisdom, care, and love; In giving time, ‘tis joy and fun! Eternal gifts, from God above. Copyright 2019 Steve Labins