This Christmas

Christmas under the African sky

This Christmas
By Sharon M. Moemise

Christmas Day we pumped up the beat
Then basted our turkey, and bathed in the heat
How I wished this time for a bit of rain or snow
In my land, South Africa, 'twas midsummer, though

My Christmas tree was made of dry sticks
'Twas decorated with anything from twigs to bricks
No colorful lights, just African stars
And a prayer for those fighting our wars

No eggnog, with cinnamon, just good ol' ginger beer
All kinds of cooking smells to feel the festive cheer
A lot of food to feed more than a town's family
And a pint of love to complete Christmas's hospitality

Toys for the kids who can afford to have some
Father Christmas provides for those who have none
Our Christmas traditions may differ, whether friend or foe
But the kiss of love exists for all under the mistletoe.