The Grinches who stole Christmas

T’was the night before Christmas in a sleepy little town

The delivery driver was taking the last presents around

Amazon confirmed what I had hoped in my heart

That my great nieces and nephews’ gifts were delivered, and Christmas had a great start!

But wait, what is this? Unlike St. Nick and his eight tiny reindeer

None of the confirmed delivered gifts ever did appear

Where did they go? How could this be?

What is the reason for this deceit?

Then using all the clues, the answer became increasing clear

The Grinches from across the way received them, and kept them this year

They opened boxes not addressed to them, then what did they do?

They decided more for us, and too bad for you, Cindy Lou Who and your sister and brother too

They wrapped them up and gave them away, no morals to be had

Their consciences clear, their integrity askew, their honesty bad

Wait! I’m from Thermopolisville - this is not how things there are done

There the people are good, they are noble, and there they help everyone

I myself like to be generous and fill tags from trees, and give to those who hold signs in need

But you didn’t ask. You stole from children and you demonstrated your greed

You’re a mean one, Mr. Grinch, you and your girlfriend make me appalled

You’re a mean one, and your hearts are two sizes too small!

What a shame you don’t know the real treasure was tiny as a mouse

It could have been a small act of kindness, of taking the misdirected gifts to the correct house

Then you would have received friendship, and praise

Good neighbors you would have made, and an example for the children you raise

Because… most of us know “Christmas doesn’t come from a store

Maybe Christmas perhaps…. Means a little bit more”

Lisa Ryberg