HOLIDAY POEMS: Don “Pathfinder” Parrish, former Pennsylvania
Fish and Boat Commission, Waterways Conservation Office, McKean
County, sent us a couple of his Christmas poems. We think readers
will enjoy them.

CHRISTMAS WISH: This first offering was written in 1998.

“If I could have one Christmas wish, what in the world would it
be?

A wish for homes for the homeless, or peace from sea to sea?

Perhaps, sight for the sightless, to enjoy the Christmas
scene?

Enough food for the hungry, surely, you know what I mean.

Ending illegal drug use, could be another choice.

Declaring alcohol unlawful, would be cause to rejoice!

Healing all the sick, would create happier times.

Finding a cure for cancer and AIDS, would truly ring the
chimes!

Whether you’re black or white, have brown or yellow skin.

We’re in this plight together, that’s the way it’s always
been.

To rid all nations of hate and prejudice, would be my ultimate
plea.

To accept our Lord and Savior, and live in harmony.”

MISSING YOU: Don wrote this poem in 2009:

“Another Christmas and you’re not home,

the kids and I, are so alone.

Honey, we pray you’ll soon be back,

from serving our country, in Iraq.

I long to see your smiling face,

to hold you close in my embrace.

To feel the warmth of your lips touching mine,

would make my world, so divine.

As I tuck each child, in bed at night,

they whimper softly and squeeze me tight.

‘I miss Daddy so much, Mommy. When will he be here?’

Holding back tears, I say, ‘Soon, very soon, my dear.’

We know it’s your job to be over there,

yet, oftentimes, it doesn’t seem fair.

You place yourself in harm’s way,

and we at home, protected stay.

We pray God keeps you safe, by day and night,

There is hope, not far from sight.

Our brave soldiers shall win this war,

and you’ll be home, again, once more.”