'twas the night before Christmas

and all over town

so many were homeless

asleep on the ground

the children were nestled in an

old cardboard box

instead of soft pillows

they had only rocks

When out in the street

There arose such a ruckus

I peeked through the hole

To see what was among us

The street was a sparkle

With ice not yet cleared

The fog was still thick

It crusted my beard

Then out of the gloom

They came into sight

So many of them

And oh, what a sight

They were carrying boxes

And bags that seamed heavy

All from the back

Of an old beat up chevy

At each little camp they would stop

But not stay

Deliver their package

And be on their way

They were dressed rather warmly

No different than us

And the looks on their faces

Of warmth and of trust

They came to our spot

Where we huddled that night

They brought out the package

And turned on a light

A youth group they told us

From a church down the street

They knew we were here

They knew were we sleep

They brought us a dinner

With turkey and pie

And toys for the children

A tear in their eyes

As they left and wished us

God's best for the year

Went on to the next group

To spread their own cheer

There was joy when they left

In the circle tonight

Brought because of a baby

And his promise of light

To all of the people

Still out on the street

I wish you good fortune

And enough food to eat