Got a birthday card at Christmas
It made me think of Jesus Christ
It said, "I love you" in small letters
I simply had to read it twice

Wood smoke curled from blackened chimneys
The smell of frost was in the air
Pole star hovered in the blackness
I looked again: it wasn't there

People have showered me with presents
While their minds were fixed on other things
Sleigh bells, bearded red suit uncles
Pointy trees and angel wings

I am the shadow in your Christmas
I am the corner of your smile
Perfunctory in celebration
You offer content but no style

That little baby Jesus
He got a birthday card or three
Gold trinkets and cheap frankincense
Some penny baubles for his tree

Have some time off for good behaviour
Forty days, give or take a few
Hey there, sweet baby Jesus
Let's share a birthday card with you