Alas! Christmas is Here

This Christmas tree feels bare to me,
Though lights still flicker, bright to see.
My pockets empty, heart weighed down,
A failing man in this hollow town.

The children laugh, their eyes alight,
But I’ve not slept a single night.
The bills pile high, the fridge is thin,
The walls close tighter, closing in.

I see my wife, her smile is forced,
She hides her tears with quiet remorse.
Her hands, once soft, now cracked with strain,
From working hard to ease our pain.

I’m supposed to give them all they need,
But how can love replace the greed
Of landlords knocking at the door,
And stores that ask for more and more?

I wish this Christmas had not arrived,
Its cheer feels cruel to those deprived.
The jingle bells, the carol’s song,
Mock my failure to belong.

I’d sell my soul to buy them peace,
To wrap their dreams in sweet release.
But all I have is shame to share,
A gift wrapped tight in my despair.