Birthday Card At Christmas - Ian Anderson

Got a birthday card at Christmas… it made me think of Jesus Christ

It said, «I love you» in small letters.

I simply had to read it twice

Wood smoke curled from blackened chimneys.

The smell of frost was in the air

Pole star hovered in the blackness.

I looked again… it wasn’t there

People have showered me with presents.

While their minds were fixed on other

things

Sleigh bells, bearded red suit uncles.

Pointy trees and angel wings

I am the shadow in your Christmas.

I am the corner of your smile

Perfunctory in celebration.

You offer content but no style

That little baby Jesus… he got a birthday card or three

Gold trinkets and cheap frankincense.

Some penny baubles for his tree

Have some time off for good behaviour.

Forty days, give or take a few

Hey there, sweet baby Jesus… Let’s share a birthday card with you