Saturday, December 26, 2015

The Jewish Version of the Night Before Christmas



This came from a friend of mine who got it from a friend of his.  I do not know the author of the piece, but thought it was wonderful in light of the right-wing's nonsensical "War Against Christmas." 

It's even more meaningful if you know anything about southeast Florida, or in particular, the city of Boca Raton.


The Jewish Version of the Night Before Christmas


T ‘was the night before Christmas
Down here in Boca.
I was sitting in Starbucks,
Drinking my Mocha.
I know we’re all Jewish,
But was wondering still
If Santa would come here
And give us a thrill.
On my way home
No Christmas lights did I see
On the houses, the windows,
Not even the trees.
What a strange feeling,
Not a decoration in sight.
Was it really December
Or a warm summer night?
I drove past the deli,
There were lines out the door.
People were waiting
For corn beef and more.
The restaurants were busy,
Christmas dinners not planned
Never, not here
We’re in Boca Land.
At home all was quiet.
I left out Kosher wine
In case Santa came to Boca
For the very first time.
Snoozing came easy
To me Christmas eve.
I wasn’t waiting for presents
To be left under a tree
I could hope all I want
I could fuss and then see
If Santa would make time
For little old me.
Then all of a sudden
He pulled up in his Jag
With a sack full of presents
Each sporting a tag.
Oy Bloomies, Oy Saks,
Oy Niemans and more.
He knows where to shop,
He frequents my stores!
He looked for the rye bread,
The coleslaw and deli.
He came to Boca first
To fill up his belly.
“I have a long night ahead
I want you to know.
From Boca I leave
For the North and the snow.”
He stayed for a while
He chatted and ate,
Then he left in a flash
Before it got late.
What a great night
I thought with a sigh.
That jolly old Santa
Is a really nice guy.
As I cleared off the table
I heard with delight
“SHALOM TO YOU ALL”
“AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT”