MY CHRISTMAS CARD LIST

Written by George A. Gladden, Sr.

I have a list of folks I know,

all written in a book,

And every year when Christmas comes,

I go and take a look.

That is when I realize

these names are a 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're become

the rhythm in each rhyme.

While it may sound fantastic 

for me to make this claim,

I really feel that I'm composed

of each remembered name.

And while you may not be aware 

of any special link,

Just meeting you has changed my life

much more than you may think.

For once I've met somebody, 

the years cannot erase. 

The memory of a pleasant word

or a friendly face.

So, never think Christmas cards

are just a mere routine 

Of names upon a Christmas list,

forgotten in between. 

For when I send a Christmas card 

that is addressed to you,

It's because you're on the list

of folks I'm endeared 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.

Whether I have known you

for many years 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 best gift life can offer

Is meeting folks like you.

So, may the spirit of Christmas 

that forevermore endures

Leave its richest blessing

in the hearts of you and yours.

Remembering all our Classmates this Christmas and praying your celebration brings a heart full of joy as you remember God's amazing love shown through His Son, Jesus.  May 2025' be a year of happiness and good health.  

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Naomi Tully Barber