CHRISTMAS CARD LIST

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.
And that is when I realize that these names are a part
Not of the book they're written in, but of my heart.
For each name stands for someone who crossed my path sometime
And in that meeting they've become the rhythm in each rhyme.
And while it sounds 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 knowing you has changed my life a lot more than you think.
For once I've known somebody, the years cannot erase
The memory of a pleasant word or of a friendly face.
So never think my 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 this list of folks I am indebted to.
For I am but the 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 years or few,
In some way you have a part in shaping things I do.
And every year when Christmas comes, I realize anew,
The best gift life can offer is knowing folks like you.
And may the Spirit of Christmas that forever endures
Leave it's richest blessings in the hearts of you and yours.

Anonymous '98