We know that Santa has been distraught.
For years he's watched as the climate has changed.
People who say that it's not a problem
Are, in his words, slightly deranged.

Now he has an additional worry:
The worldwide spread of COVID-19.
He says that people who lie to the public
About the virus are downright obscene.

"It makes no sense," he said with a sigh,
"NOT to be more realistic
About acknowledging what works.
The answer is relatively simplistic.

"Mask-wearing happens to be
A proven means to keep us from harm.
The vaccine's metaphorically
And literally a shot in the arm.

"The elves and Mrs. Claus and I
Have gotten our COVID boosters, and so
While conditions were bad last year,
This year I've been raring to go.

"But now there's yet ANOTHER variant.
Omicron they call it, and I
Fear that as the virus spreads,
More people are going to die.

"It really hurts me when politicians--
Who ought to be talking more about giving--
Say instead that there are some
Things that are more important than living!"

Wiping a tear from his eye, he added,
"You know, something is truly amiss
When people embrace false information.
Ignorance isn't always bliss.

"For a better, more compassionate world,
And especially for the sake of our youth,
My wish is that more and more
People will take stock in the truth."

He paused for a moment, then he asked,
"Do you think it would be too shocking
If I placed a COVID test
In everybody's Christmas stocking?"

He stood there quietly, deep in thought.
I said good-bye and took my leave.
Hmmm. I wonder what ol' Santa
Has in mind for Christmas Eve.

-by Bob B (12-3-21)