HOW I REMEMBER CHRISTMAS IN GUYANA - Anonymous
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I remember Christmas was
The season when Santa came
But somehow today it's different
The spirit is not the same
As soon as school was closed
There was excitement in the air
You heard the carols playing
And knew the time was near
The streets were getting busy
With people shopping around
And masquerades were flouncing
All about the town
You sensed that festive thrill
With your home in disarray
Being cleaned from top to bottom
To sparkle on Christmas day
I loved those special smells
Of new linoleum on the floor
And fresh paint and varnish
And new curtains from the store
You felt the Christmas weather
And somehow you could tell
When those dull and drizzly days
Gave off that Christmas smell
But you would only know for sure
That Christmas was almost there
When the garlic pork was made
And the sorrel and ginger beer
And the house was full of flavours
When mom began to bake
That juicy clove spiced ham
And lots of good black cake
And finally on Christmas Eve
When the Christmas tree was light
Our home transformed itself
Into such a magical sight
With small change in my pocket
And my cap guns in my hand
I strolled along Camp Street
Eating nuts and apples and
"Carbon tins" are firing
And guns are popping loud
And last minute shoppers
Are hustling among the crowd
Carol singers are singing
And people are having fun
And I am sad but tired
When the night is almost done
But the greatest thrill of all
That final mystical event
When I hung my pillow case
And off to sleep I went
And early on Christmas morning
The first thing I rushed to see
Were all those wonderful toys
That Santa had brought for me
Then pepper pot and pickled onions
Walnuts and Quality Street
With that sumptuous Christmas dinner
We all sat down to eat
I always remember Christmas day
How special it was for me
My world was filled with joy
And peace and harmony
I know these special memories
Will remain for some years yet
That's how I remember Christmas
And I just cannot forget.