The Night Before Christmas

by Tom Mueller

Twas the night before Christmas and throughout the world
Mothers were racing as fear of guilt swirled
For missing the moment, not providing the thing
That smiles and joy and thanks would sure bring

Have we bought all the gifts we’ll need for each child?
Are the meals all planned, will the weather be mild?
And what of our friends – the far and the near?
Have we sent every card, we have missed one I fear

Will the children come home or will they find some excuse?
Too much work! No flights! Or some other ruse?
Uncertainty swirls as the details she scours
Arrivals, activities, meals – and the flowers

Meanwhile the menfolk stand out of the way
Unsure, a bit frightened – ill at ease in this fray
Give him a tool and request a repair
That job he’ll deliver – with skill and with care

But good Lord keep him out of this holiday whirl
Where his skills seem ill-suited, not needed, and feral
Standing silently by, he’ll defend and support
But no mixing of a quiche, a souffle or a tort!

We’ll need a group photo to capture the scene
One that excites, invites and becomes not a meme
We’ll share it on Facebook, Insta and X
Hoping that ours stands out from the rest

These are the challenges we many will face
As holidays add to the mind-numbing pace
To mothers all over – thanks may I say
For all that you do to carry the day

Originally written December 2024