This Christmas

What do you want for Christmas?

The most common question of the season.

But for some silence trumps an answer

and this is the reason:

While you gather up your family

to sit and admire your tree,

others sit in their homes

feeling nothing but lonely.

Yes, the lights are pretty

and there are presents galore,

but for many, this season

is a reminder of so much more.

There are women all around you

spending more time in shame than glory.

Not because they're ungrateful

but because infertility is their story.

They have a longing in their heart

for a baby of their own

but months or years have passed

and yet they're still alone.

No material thing

could ever make them feel complete

when all they want is

the pitter patter of small feet.

They want to be the ones

posting pictures all around

of a baby in christmas pajamas

sleeping safe and sound

or to see that little ones face

filled with so much joy

as they rush to see what santa brought

and get to open their new toy.

I, too, feel that sadness

for I am one the few

that prays and prays for a baby

but my dreams never come true.

Just to announce that we are expecting,

to get that positive test

or to hold a sweet baby in my arms

would lay this hurt to rest.

So as you rush through this Christmas season,

complaining of all the things you have to do,

remember there are others

who would gladly walk in your shoes.

Show a little extra compassion,

say an extra prayer,

for until you've been where they are

you have nothing to compare.