My last poetic offering of 2021, as directed to my son and his family who have tested positive for Covid this Christmas. Only his 14-year old son escaped infection. They were all over for dinner early this week so my wife and I are also in the testing process. Today we stood in line under the hot sun for about an hour for a swabbing. Tuesday, we get rapid-tested and should also get today’s results. Heck of a way to end the year and start a new one. I wrote this tongue-in-cheek tribute to the holidays while waiting for my test:

Unwanted Gifts

Some people got socks,
Or coal in their stocking.
Some got what they requested,
While certain gifts were shocking.

Many offerings this year,
Were not under the tree.
It was something unexpected,
That we couldn’t even see.

There was no wrapping,
Or card to read.
And the kind of present,
No one would ever need.

Covid for Christmas?
Don’t know what to say.
It shouldn’t be re-gifted,
Or passed in any way.

So many holidays ruined,
By this unwanted gift.
And if you received it,
You are surely miffed.

It can’t be returned,
Or even taken back.
Nobody wants it,
Once it’s unpacked.

So, we’ll be home,
For New Years.
Forget the toasts,
And cheers.

We’ll wear our comfy PJs,
No need for gown or tux.
Dinner plans are cancelled,
Saving lots of bucks.

The ball will drop,
As always.
But we’ll avoid,
That craze.

We’ll be asleep before,
The clock strikes midnight.
No rowdy crowds to battle,
Or DUIs to fight.

No “Jolly Good Fellas,”
Or stranger’s hug or kiss.
These awkward traditions,
We’re grateful to miss.

It was a Covid Christmas,
And New Year’s Quarantine.
Won’t be donning silly hats,
Or renting a limousine.

We’ll continue to vaccinate,
Until the virus goes away.
And get another Booster,
For our next Birthday.

Copyright 2021 johnstonwrites.com