
There’s no presents under the late put up tree
No one taking up the seats at the empty table
It’s going to just be another day, another struggle
Finding something to talk about together
Despite having nothing left to say … I am done
The arriving cards pretend I don’t exist
All I am now is ‘and family’ when no one else lives here
The ‘family’ calls and video chats … don’t mention her
You hung baubles with my deadname on the tree!
Not even tucked around the back … front and centre
For all to see when you have visitors, for I have none
There it is … his name … the name you prefer
It’s how you have and always will see me isn’t it?
You’ll never see me … never her, she, daughter …
Just the name you wish I still used, hanging on the tree
The child you wish was here … well I’m still here
So hang your wreath, shine the twinkling lights
Play your festive carols, spread your Christmas cheer
I won’t be here come the day of birth (that isn’t that day)
Don’t want to leave you alone, but you give no choice
I need to spend this time with family who see me
Have a holly, jolly time, and happy holidays! Hope it’s fun!
Merry Christmas and here’s to many more ...
With the family of the chosen kind
Because with a message in a bauble, you chose him
-
P.S.
I’m taking those baubles down
With the same respect you gave
As you hung them up!
None!
About the Creator
Savannah K. Wilson
She/Her | Australian 🏳️⚧️ Author
Queer and all class with a touch of sass! (or maybe the reverse!)
short stories, poetry, life experience



Comments (4)
Aww this is so sad. At least you have a chosen family, one that really accepts and love you with respect. Sending you hugs 🤗.
That's truly heartbreaking, to not be accepted for who we are 🥺 Sending you lots of love and hugs ❤️
SMASH THOSE DAMN BAUBLES ON THEIR HEADS
As cliche as it is, it’s true: family doesn’t end in blood. Hope you have a happy holiday with the people who love you and see YOU ♥️