“What do you want for Christmas?” they ask
As if it comes in a box.
I don’t want a gift with a ruffly bow
Or underpants or socks.
What I really want for Christmas
Is for someone to notice me
And ask how I am feeling
Not just a box under the tree.
I want them to say “How’re ya doing?
What did you do today?
Did you visit with your friends?
Or kayak out in the bay?”
I want them to ask me a question
And let me answer it long
With descriptions and excitement
Or convictions that are strong.
I want to ask them questions
Interrupting for more details
Without them rolling up their eyes
With sneers and moans and wails.
I want to tell a silly joke
And have a little fun
So everyone can giggle and laugh
Not contempt from everyone.
I want someone to ask me
When I walk through the door
How was your appointment,
Yoga class or grocery store?
I want someone to see me
As more than the cook in the kitchen,
Or the “hop to I need help” mom
With no feelings or intuition.
I want them all to notice
That I know math formulas and facts,
How to budget, invest, and tutor
And negotiate mortgages and tax.
I want my family to see me
Know a real person lurks inside
With passions and dreams and ideas
And a heart filled with pride.
I want them to really see me
Being invisible is just not fun
See my haircut, my smile and my tears
Treat me like a special someone.
So when you ask me what I want
You may not stop to listen,
But I have a lot of wishes
That I gladly could have given.
Karen Webb, Gibsons
