Orginally written: 12/14/91

The Christmas Tree still stands, although stripped bare;
the sweet smell of pine lingers in the air.

Popcorn and cranberries are littered 'bout the floor;
having fallen from the trees, as years before.

The presents are gone, but wrappers lay 'round;
tinsel and needles clutter about the ground.

Among all this mess sits a forgotten bear;
hardly seen unless you are near.

Forgotten among the newer toys;
ignored among the greater joys.

The fur of its body; the color of brown,
the smile upon its face; seems as a frown.

Its bright red ribbon is tied in a bow;
but no one cares, and no one will know...

The eyes on its face now stare into space.

It holds out its arms for someone to embrace,
and wishes to gaze into a smiling face.

A toddler arrives and hugs it to his chest,
then carries it with him to get a good night's rest.