Ring in the New Year

I must start by saying that Christmas was wonderful. As I get older I don't expect gifts from my family, but it is wonderful to receive them. It makes me feel a sense of love. I also get equal joy from watching my family open presents that I have bought for them. However, I think the best part is sitting around playing cards, talking smack, and drinking wassail (spiked of course!). This is the second Christmas without my Grandfather. Sometimes I just stop and remember him and have to smile. It's sad to not have him here but in a way I believe he is. I previously mentioned my mother puts a poem in the paper in his memory every year. It still brought a tear to all of our eyes but with a fondness. I thought it would be nice to share this poem, ring in the new year with love. 

I see the countless Christmas trees around the world below, 

With tiny lights, like Heaven's stars reflecting on the snow. 

The sight is so spectacular, please wipe away that tear, 

For I am spending Christmas with with Jesus Christ this year. 

I hear the many Christmas songs that people hold so dear, 

But the sound of music can't compare with the Christmas choir up here. 

I have no words to tell you the joy their voices bring, 

For it is beyond description to hear the angels sing. 

I know how much you miss me, I see the pain inside your heart. 

But I am not so far away, we really aren't apart. 

I cannot tell you of the splendor or the peace inside this place. 

Can you imagine Christmas with our Savior, face to face?

I will ask him to light your spirits as I tell him of your love. 

So then pray for one another as you lift your eyes above. 

So be happy for me, dear ones, you know I hold you dear. 

And be glad I'm spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year. 

I sent you each a special gift from my heavenly home above, 

I sent you each a memory of my undying love. 

After all, love is a gift more precious than pure gold. 

It was always most important in the stories Jesus told. 

Please love and keep each other, as my Father said to do. 

For I can't count the blessings of love he has for each of you. 

So have a Merry Christmas and wipe away that tear, 

Remember, I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.