T`was the night beforeChristmas He lived all alone, In a one bedroom house made of plaster and stone. I had come down the chimney with presents to give,And to see who in this house did live. I looked all about,A strange sight did I see, No tinsel,no presents,Not even a tree. No stocking by mantle,Just boots filled with sand,On the wallhung pictures of far distant lands. With medals and badges,awards of all kind,a sober thought came through my mind. For this house was different,it was dark and dreary.I found the home of a soldier,once I could see clearly. The soldier lay sleeping,silent,alone,curled upon the floor in this one bedroom home. The face was so gentle,the room in such disorder,not how I pictured a United States soldier. Was this the hero of whom I`d just read? Curled up on a poncho,the floor for a bed? I realized the families that I saw this night,owed their lives to these soldiers who were willing to fight. Soon round the world,the children would play,and grown-ups would celebrate a bright Christmas Day. They all enjoy freedom each month of the year,because of the soldiers,like the one lying here. I couldn`t help wonder how many lay alone,on a cold Christmas Eve in a land far from home. The very thought brought a tear to my eye,I dropped to my knees and started to cry. The soldier awakened and I heard a rough voice "Santa,don`t cry,this life is my choice; I fight for freedom I don`t ask for more,My life is my God,My country,My corps." The soldier rolled over and drifted off to sleep,I couldn`t control it,I continued to weep. I kept watch for hours,so silent and still and we both shivered from the night`s chill. I didn`t leave on that cold,dark night,this guardian of honor so willing to fight. Then the soldier rolled over,with a voice soft and pure,whispered,"Carry on Santa,it`s Chistmas Day,all is secure." One look at my watch,and I knew he was right,"Merry Chistmas,my friend,and to all a good night." TO ALL THE WARRIORS BOTH NEAR AND FAR "I SALUTE YOU,YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN" If you read this please pass it on,I hope you cry as much reading this as I did when I typed it. *MERRY CHRISTMAS EACH AND EVERYONE*
