Veterans’ Service Recognition Book 188 EVERYDAY IS REMEMBRANCE DAY ‘Twas the night before Christmas, he lived all alone, In a one bedroom house of plaster and stone. I had come down the chimney with presents to give, And to see just who in this home did live. I looked all about, a strange sight to see, No tinsel, no presents, not even a tree. No stocking by mantle, just boots filled with sand, On the wall hung pictures of far distant lands. With Medals and Badges, awards of all kinds, A sober thought came through my mind. For this house was different, it was dark and dreary, I found the home of a soldier, once I could see clearly. The soldier lay sleeping, silent, alone, Curled up on the floor in this one bedroom home. The face was so gentle, the room in disorder, Not how I pictured a Canadian Soldier. Who was this hero of whom I’d just read, Curled up on a poncho, the floor for a bed? I realized the families that I saw this night, Owed their lives to these soldiers who were willing to fight. Soon ‘round the world, the children would play, And grownups would celebrate a bright Christmas Day. They all enjoyed freedom each month of the year, Because of the soldiers, like the one lying here. I couldn’t help wonder howmany lay alone, On a cold Christmas Eve, in a land far from home. The very thought brought a tear to my eye, I dropped to my knees and started to cry. The soldier awakened and I heard a rough voice, “Santa, don’t cry, this life is my choice”. I fight for my freedom, I don’t ask for more, My life is my God, my Country, My Corps. The soldier rolled over and drifted to sleep I couldn’t control it, I continued to weep. I kept watch for hours, so silent and still, And we both shivered from the cold night’s chill. I didn’t want to leave on that cold, dark night, This Guardian of Honour, so willing to fight. Then the soldier rolled over, with a voice soft and pure, Whispered, “Carry on Santa, It’s Christmas Day, All is Secure”. One look at my watch, and I knew he was right, “Merry Christmas my friend, and to all a Good Night”. Written by a Peacekeeping Soldier stationed overseas.
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