By Bruce Mastracchio

I have a list of folks I know, all written in a book,
And every year at Christmastime, I go and take a look.

And that is when I realize that these names are a big part,
Not of the book they’re written in, but of my very heart.

For each name stands for someone who has crossed my path sometime,
And in that meeting they’ve become, the rhythm of the rhyme.

And while it sounds fantastic for me to make this claim,
I really feel I am composed of each remembered name.

And while you may not be aware of any special link,
Just meeting you has shaped my life much more than you can think.

For once you’ve met somebody, the years can not erase
The memories of a pleasant word or of a friendly face.

So never think my Christmas greeting is just a mere routine
Of names upon a Christmas list, forgotten in between.

For when I send a Christmas greeting that is addressed to you,
It’s because you’re on that list of folks I am indebted to.

For I am but a total of the many folks I’ve met,
And you happen to be one of those I prefer not to forget.

And whether I have known you for many days or few,
In some way you have had a part in shaping things I do.

And every year when Christmas comes, I realize anew
The biggest gift that life can give is meeting folks like you!

So may the spirit of Christmas that forever and ever endures,
Leave its richest blessings in the hearts of you, my friends, and yours!

Anonandme