Santa Wore Camouflage

Imagine the streets as I saw them

filled with holiday spirit and Christmas joys.

Families were gaily shopping for their loved ones;

their packages brimming with exciting new toys.

A grandeur display of dancing lights

dazzled the shops and beckoned to passers by.

Tinsel dressed trees were contributing to the festivities

and enchanting little ones eyes.

Yet, almost hidden by the shadows was a young family

clothed in last winter’s ill-fitting attire.

They longingly gazed upon the bustling activities

while warming themselves before a fire.

When lo and behold,

was one of the strangest sights my eyes have ever seen.

Striding directly toward them with arms laden with gifts

was none other than an U.S. Marine!

It was a lasting picturesque painted upon my memory.

Those children’s faces illuminated in wonderment and pure joy.

How precious it was to see a soldier fresh from combat duty

taking the time to bring a needy child a toy.

I could not help myself, I approached him with an outstretched hand,

and that’s when I saw his scars from casualties of war.

“Bless you, kind sir,” I offered.

He just smiled, “It is moments like this that we are fighting for.”

Now I assure you if this Christmas you see a soldier in a Santa hat,

It is truly not a seasonal mirage!

For some children the only Saint Nichols they ever see

Delivers holiday hope and cheer while dressed in camouflage.

~ Tammy Leigh Maxey