Noon hours spent training new volunteers
who will come out on Monday to give Xmas cheer.
Students from Langara College
got training in “trauma awareness” knowledge.

Headed home to change into my suit
red velvet and white cuffs to boot.
A Santa hat adorned my head
Jeannie joined me in matching red.

Car stuffed with stockings we embarked
to the shelter to play the part.
Santa’s helpers, arms stuffed with stockings
so many boxes we had difficulty walking.

Women were delighted
We all felt excited.
Hugs came from all around
Hope and dignity a bound.

One moment touched me most
A woman haunted by violent ghosts
who never let anyone touch her
was so moved by the stocking she stirred.

Once then twice
she hugged me and Jeannie - oh so nice.
Eyes full of tears
She said we made her year.

Moments like that are
why we do the work
that we do.
Because we believe
hope, love and touch
can change lives so very much.