Christmas Gathering

In the glow of twinkling lights,

we gather, hearts joined together,

a quilt of soft voices and laughter flowing

through the rooms we once filled,

each corner cradling memories

of gentle hands,

the warmth of presence so palpable.

❄️

Snowflakes cascade like fragile dreams,

dancing in the night air,

each one a wish upon the breath

of Christmas dreams,

as we set the table,

extra plate, extra chair,

for spirits that linger,

each ghost a guardian

of the love we hold tight.

❄️

The scent of pine wraps around us,

sweet and enduring,

reminding us that life cycles,

that love, though it shifts,

never truly fades

it shimmers in the ornaments,

sparkles in the laughter of children,

rests in the hearts of those

who gather and those

who watch from afar.

❄️

We toast to memories spun in gold,

to laughter shared under mistletoe,

to stories told 'round the fire,

each blaze a heartbeat,

each shadow a sigh,

reminders that they have not gone,

for they reside in our laughter,

interlaced into the fabric of our celebrations.

❄️

Tonight we will say their names,

like a sacred prayer,

binding our hearts with love,

as the stars twinkle above,

we feel them with us,

as we share this blessed Christmas,

wrapped in the arms of family,

knowing that love’s light

is the strongest gift of all.