Backstory – ‘Twas the Night
Surely you know the traditional Christmas poem, A Visit from St. Nicholas, written by Clement Clarke Moore in 1822. My version acknowledges the tens of thousands of grandparents who find themselves raising grandchildren. Safe to say that few expected to spend retirement years caring for young’uns. This poem is a loving Christmas salute to them all.
Consider This Show – ‘Twas the Night
Click to listen or follow below to read.
‘Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house,
The sound of kids laughing reached the wife and her spouse.
These folks, in their sixties, that is apparent,
Did not expect filling their days as a parent.
But fate somehow chose them, to do it again,
One child or more, badly needing a friend.
They didn’t expect, at retirement age,
To be moms and dads, and not turning the page.
But children need love and attention galore,
And there they were standing, right at their front door.
So, here’s to the grandmas still braiding young hair,
And learning of Sponge Bob with pants that are square.
And grandpas at soccer and football and such,
Your love and devotion are meaning so much.
The kids keep you whirling around and about,
By day’s end, you’re sometimes completely worn out.
You’ve learned about iPods and lap tops and cell phones,
American Idol, the GaGa and ring tones.
You’ve put in your time at the pool and the park,
And soothed little people afraid of the dark.
Here’s wishing you strength in these rushed, busy days,
When hours rush by in a holiday haze.
Santa may bring you some sleep as your gift,
Along with the toys that you sort, wrap and lift.
He’s seen all your efforts through these many days,
He said God has seen too and sends you His praise.
And I heard him exclaim, as he drove out of sight,
Granny and Papa, now have a good night.
[Show #255]
