Christmas eve

The Eve of Renewal
 

'Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the halls,

A quiet resolve echoed off walls.

No stockings were hung, no sleigh bells to cheer,

But the spirit of healing was vibrant and near.

In shadows of heartache, in struggles they’ve faced,

Each carried a burden, yet none were disgraced.

With courage they stood, and with fellowship grew,

Bound by the hope of a life that is true.

Each scar told a story of battles once fought,

Of lessons in courage, the wisdom pain taught.

Through darkness and doubt, through storm and through flame,

They sought not perfection, but freedom from shame.

The air held a stillness, yet also a song,

A hymn of redemption, of righting the wrong.

The echoes of laughter, the solace of tears,

The bond of recovery dissolving their fears.

For here, they were more than the weight of their pain,

Each struggle a steppingstone, nothing in vain.

With bravery blooming like roses from stone,

They found they were never, not ever, alone.

And though it was Christmas, with no tree in sight,

The warmth of their fellowship brought forth the light.

A hand on a shoulder, a word soft and kind,

Became the true gifts of the soul and the mind.

So tonight, let us honor the battles they wage,

The story of triumph, the turn of the page.

For recovery’s journey, though rugged and steep,

Is a promise of peace, a love they can keep.

And as the clock struck, with stars shining bright,

The world whispered softly, "You’ve fought a good fight."

And from ashes of hardship, a phoenix took flight,

On this sacred and healing, brave Christmas Eve night.