as laughs and the smiles fill the room
the spirit of the season protects them from harm
the bond of a family and the unity of those
who place their trust and well being in the hands
of each other...

a candle flame flickers atop the mahogany mantel
adorned with keepsake figurines and colorful stockings
the black bricks within the fireplace
a timeline of history
layers of family gatherings charrd with memories

the wind whips against the old wood framed windows
ancient glass etched with stories from the past
the view of a brown brick porch... wrought iron posts
and antique light fixtures
fill the picturesque landscape

floor boards creak under foot
as the former residents wonder the house
a shadow moves across the room
and the candle flame dances
atop its crystal perch

glances of acceptance shoot across the room
they know they are not alone here
and they find comfort with their company
knowing they are being looked after
by those of whom have loved this place as much as they

the lights upon the strands
carefully woven within the branches of the tree
twinkle and shine and reflect off of the tensil
a family history of ornaments adorn its branches
so thoughtfully placed as to not crowd each other

high atop the tree i sit
holding a candle with a flickering electric light
this is the family that has so graciously
chosen me as the pinnacle of their holiday decorations
and i shall watch over them