In the Missed

I didn't see you coming,
despite the lights, the bells,
the sweet voices singing.

Yes, sure I knew
there was something going on,
but my head was buried.

I had buzzing in my ears,
and a little drummer boy
captive in my chest.

My hand was held, then pulled like a cracker,
but no party crown or novelty gift,
only a riddle from wise men.

We have to let you go,
you will be sorely missed,
we are sorry to lose you.

I wish our paths had crossed.
All I heard was that you left quietly,
shedding tears of tinsel.

© Martin Hodges