I Like to Think of Santa
by Avon Allen Compton, a poem written for Christmas of 1988
I like to think of Santa
With a mild and mellow face,
A real benevolent sort of man
Who has both charm and grace.
In fact, who doesn't really mind,
If kids hang, crawl, or sprawl on him--
You know the very kind.
Is one who understands and shares,
The thoughts of shy and fearful kids,
He listens to their cares.
I'm sure this sort of special saint,
Can nod his head and grin,
And make those sad, self-centered tots,
Feel better from within.
The Santa that I'm dreaming of
Is not a jovial boisterous guy,
But one who's rather quiet,
Yet has a twinkle in his eye.
I picture him with gentle hands,
And arms that give great hugs,
So every little girl and boy's
Heart strings get strong tugs.
Yes, I like to think of Santa
With a radiant beaming face,
Who takes the time to understand
And love the human race!
Note from Tammy: Brittany and I were just reading through some of the cute notebooks and things Nana Avon put together for Brittany and Jacob when they were young, I found this poem. I don't remember reading it before, although I must have when she first sent it to me. Reading it now really makes me smile--it is a different picture of Santa--a gentle one who is in tune with kids. Of course she would see Santa like that because that was how she was. She was an all-year-round Mrs. Santa to her grandkids and her students, the kids in the ward, wherever they were, she would find them and love them.
Avon Compton passed away peacefully just last November after a long struggle with Alzheimers disease. We will keep her memory alive by continuing to share her stories, poems and journals. Thanks for reading her blog!
So charming! Thank you! Your mother's gifts of wit and love are like the golden eggs from the proverbial goose. They are endless.
ReplyDeleteThis Santa was visiting the Crandalls next door and decided to drop by for a visit. When he wasn't the famous Santa (appearing on all the Osmond Family Holiday Specials) he lived in our ward and was a great friend. (J.Robert Howe) He and Byron became friends and J. Robert actually had Byron fill in for him at the local radio station when J. Robert couldn't be there to announce - back in the live days of radio.. Thanks Tammy!
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