In peaceful reminiscence
I sat alone today,
With Christmas tree my vision
And gifts upon display

Yet in the seats surrounding
Old souls did take their place,
Strongly felt in spirit
But absent voice or face

My mother gently kissed me
And took her favorite chair,
Aunts all came together
Each one a hug to share

Uncles soon did follow
Some boisterous, others shy,
And cousins, just a couple
Each one too young to die

Then each of my grandparents
Their presence regal, strong,
And at their heels our precious pets
Right back where they belong

And who all were and still remain
Brought thoughts to me so clear,
How in this blessed season
Each one again appears

Not just within our memories
Not just through stories told,
But through our kindness, through our hearts
And deep within our souls

~ Leana Delle
Sunday, December 22, 2019
2019 Sunday Poetry Challenge – Number fifty of fifty-two
Photo Credit: Leana Delle