DesertWords

Christmas Journey

\"Would you explain all this to me?
Why am I tied here to this tree?
And who are all those people there
saying goodbye to that young pair?
Are they going on a trip?\"

\"Yes, indeed, and so are you.
I overheard a word or two.
She\'s about to birth a child,
but they must travel many miles
to get to Bethlehem.\"

\"Okay, I see what is in store.
I haul the bags just like before.
Just once I\'d like a lighter load.
It\'s not a very easy road 
from here to Bethlehem.

\"Well, here they come, I guess it\'s time.
But wait, why does the woman climb
upon my back?  Can this be true?
A lovely child, and lighter, too,
than all the tents and poles.

\"I will remember this fine day
and I will cherish, come what may,
the honor and the gift bestowed
to carry such an easy load
all the way to Bethlehem.

\"By the way --
    What is the young girl\'s name?\"