Christmas Eve

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Another Christmas Eve, but this one’s not the same,

Something deep within me whispers life has changed its name.

Not braced for what might shatter, not holding my breath tight,

For once I’m resting easy as the world turns soft with light.


Last year was stitched with sorrow, with confusion, pain, and loss,

Each morning felt like penance, every choice a heavy cost.

I carried guilt like winter, cold and cutting to the bone,

Unsure if I would ever find my way back home.


But this year I am standing, sober, present, free,

Tomorrow doesn’t frighten me with what it asks of me.

I wake without the weight of shame pressed heavy on my chest,

And for the first time in so long, I know I’ve done my best.


Lights adorn the house and tree, like the glitter in my heart,

Tiny sparks of healing where the breaking used to start.

Laughter fills the walls again, no echoes left to roam,

This joy is loud and living—this house is finally home.


My children’s eyes are shining with a trust rebuilt by time,

Proof that love can mend itself when nurtured line by line.

The past no longer haunts me, it taught me how to stay,

To choose my life, my family, each fragile, sacred day.


So, here’s to this Christmas Eve, wrapped up in grace and truth,

To hard-won second chances and the quiet strength that soothes.

I don’t need perfect moments, I don’t need grand displays,

Just this peace, this presence, and the promise of these days.


©️ Wonderland Wanderess 2025

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