Christmas and Its Dysfunctions
by Michael Doyle

Life around Christmas can be crazy
Though the reasons why can feel hazy
The story of Christmas continues on and on
In versions of dreams from just beyond

But with family, it comes together
With every improvised verse, it just gets better
Everyone we love, it seems is a superstar
Especially if they can strum a guitar

Happy Christmas; you've been missed
The "come on in" is sealed and kissed
One more drink leads to one more story
This family of ours has seen its glory

The stars outside are in conjunction
Even if our dreams live, we barely function
Somehow, we've managed to muddle through
It's just the truth lived in what we do

The pain that comes with too many fights
Comes decorated with strings of Christmas lights
We live our way into the following Christmas Day
Wondering what it is Jesus would say

Happy Christmas; you've been missed
The "come on in" is sealed and kissed
One more drink leads to one more story
This family of ours has seen its glory

The life we love to hate is an open invitation
To somehow see past the poignant aggravation
She stares out the window at the holiday lights
All these passing years have known some crazy nights

Small talk is shared just to plant its smile
The life we share brings us through all the while
We fall in love weighted on our bruised knees
Then type our stories and verses on wounded keys

Happy Christmas; you've been missed
The "come on in" is sealed and kissed
One more drink leads to one more story
This family of ours has seen its glory

(c) December 25, 2024   Michael Doyle
All Rights Reserved