LETTERS: THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS

'Twas the night before Christmas, he lived all alone in a one-bedroom house made of plaster and stone. I had come down the chimney with presents to give and to see just who in this house did live.

I looked all about, a strange sight I did see. No tinsel. No presents. Not even a tree. No stockings by the mantle, just boots filled with sand. On the wall hung pictures of far distant lands.

With medals and badges, awards of all kinds, a sober thought came through my mind. For this house was different. It was dark and dreary. I found the home of a soldier once I could see clearly.

The soldier lay sleeping, silent, alone, curled up on the floor in this one-bedroom home. The face was so gentle, the room in such disorder -- not how I had pictured a United States soldier.

Was this the hero of whom I'd just read, curled up on a poncho, the floor for a bed? I realized the families that I saw this night owed their lives to these soldiers who were willing to fight.

Soon 'round the world the children would play, and grownups would celebrate a bright Christmas Day. They all enjoyed freedom each month of the year because of the soldiers like the one lying here.

I couldn't help wonder how many law alone on a cold Christmas Eve in a land far from home. The very thought brought a tear to my eye. I dropped to my knees and started to cry.

The soldier awakened, and I heard a rough voice: "Santa, don't cry, this life is my choice. I fight for freedom. I don't ask for more. My life is my God, my country, my corps."

The soldier rolled over and drifted to sleep. I couldn't control. I continued to weep. I kept watch for hours, so silent and still. And we both shivered from the cold night's chill.

I didn't want to leave, on that cold, dark night, this guardian of honor so willing to fight. Then the soldier rolled over and with a voice soft and pure whispered: "Carry on, Santa, it's Christmas Day. All is secure."

One look at my watch and I knew he was right. Merry Christmas, my friend, and to all a good night.

-- Author unknown.