As the holiday season approaches
Many of us wonder
Should we celebrate Christmas and New Year
As much of 2008
Was marred by pain
With icons falling
Falsehoods exposed
Markets failing, confidence breaking
Violence and hatred
Seem to be holding forth
And yet, amidst this upheaval
Sprouts hope for change
That our sacrifices are not in vain
As we watched the so-called pillars
Of modern society crumble
Almost imperceptibly,
Old values, glue stronger
As new ones spring up
Linking our past to the future
Soon we will share stories of living through
A redefinition of humanity
So let us celebrate
The gifts of life and love
Of friendship and laughter
Of the way of the spirit, that links us
To the immeasurable spirit of life itself
Let us remember
And draw into our circle
Those who have lost
Love, hope, and life
For their sacrifices are not unsung
Let us also remember
And draw into our circle
Those who are chained
By fear and hatred
For their hearts to be set free
Let this be our hope and prayer
This special season, for the primacy
Of love, hope and giving
Are needed now,
More than ever before.
Anita Atina
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/should-we-celebrate-christmas-and-new-year/
