there was a dual wrestling meet last night
all these boys, young men really
hoping their practiced discipline and best efforts
would place them on this side of glory
a raised arm at third period’s end
a personal win
points for their team
quick food, hot coffee and school spirit
we bought an event tee for the big son
I didn’t look at the shirt ’til later
against the black cotton weave
was the image of a handsome, young man
135 pounds
his chiseled arm raised in victory
it was then I realized
the tournament was named after this wrestler
he’d died in a car accident two years ago
and I knew
whether the big son
won or lost
we’d been winning all along
at this time of year
when the magnifying glass
boxes in our hearts
may thoughts of warmth
go out to those
whose children are no longer here
but live on in their souls
Baby Elf
illustration previously published
anntogether 
Touching last verse and such a cute baby elf. Stunning drawing, Ann Marie. May the season bring you and your family many blessings.
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Thank you, Olga.
The big son did win his match last night, he was quite happy. I couldn’t get the young man on the tee shirt out of my head…
May you have a beautiful season as well.:)
am:)
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beautiful beautiful words………we so often forget that Christmas is not a joyous time for some.
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Those of us fortunate enough to maintain genuine happiness during this season are fortunate indeed.
am:)
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To all those who left early to catch a falling star.
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May their precious stars illuminate dreams and memories
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AM, nice sentiment, especially for this time of year when we tend to put emphasis on material things. Hit “like” for this comment, AM. No need to comment. 😉
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You look at all these wrestlers, big strapping young men and think nothing can ever harm them.
Thank you for you kind thoughts.
am:)
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