With apologies and all due respect to Charles Dickens….
My tale is quite old, and most people have heard
how I walked home from work one night undisturbed,
had supper then nodding off was surprised
by my old business partner who’d already died.
He warned, and it happened that night as I snoozed….
It wasn’t my age, and it wasn’t the booze…..
Three spirits did wake me to show me the way…..
How simple and innocent as a kid I did play.
As a young man so full of life and ambition,
but my dreams and a marriage never came to fruition.
Then I was shown how the world was that night…..
all the pain and despair, but what gave me a fright
was a glimpse of my future, all dark without LOVE.
I cried out to the heavens and to God above!
Three spirits that shook me to show me the way….
I remember each moment with them to this day!
I’d closed off my heart to all LOVE and mankind,
but reality checked into my brain just in time.
The message was clear. I’d be safe if I would
show kindness to others, to my neighbors be good,
respect their beliefs, help them out if they need,
get rid of my selfishness, my soul would be freed!
As the holidays draw near, every city and town,
should embrace Peace and Love, not put others down.
A Menorah should stand proudly lit by a Creche,
with some Kwanza candles, lights or whatever they wish.
If their symbols of LOVE do not hurt anyone,
let them stand on town land till their holiday’s done.
After all, if they do so, it’s their legal right!
But this time of year is for PEACE, not a fight.
And throughout the year, not just in December,
this generous feeling our hearts should remember.
So please think about it. This message is huge!
Let us celebrate Christmas….. don’t be a Scrooge!!!
Laurie E. Hoppe-Ringer
Member, Highlands Economic Development and Tourism Corp.
West Milford