The Bureaucrat’s Carol

xmas tree
Spreadsheets and paperwork
all done up in care
Wrapped up next year’s budget
in amazing detail
 
It’s time to report
that all is quite well
I’ve jolly support
and am gladdened to tell:
 
I’ll issue a Merry Christmas
I’ll issue a Merry Christmas
I’ll issue a Merry Christmas
and a Happy New Year!
 
All properly done in triplicate form
1999-XMAS-9-OPM (modified)
You’re entitled by law to a modicum of cheer
we’ll assign you a relatively good New Year
 
We’re closing the office and
locking the door
I think there’s a shutdown
and can’t disclose more
 
But…
 
I’ll issue a Merry Christmas
I’ll issue a Merry Christmas
I’ll issue a Merry Christmas
and a Happy New Year!

Seasonal

Gate to Seoul

Evergreen and twinkling lights
Crispness in the evening air
The smell of baking from the kitchen —
The holidays are finally here

In a year of desperate struggle
Political theater and viral threat
At last, we’ve reached the season
Reminding us to not forget

That despite our current station
And the burdens on our mind
God’s intention from creation —
Peace on Earth, Goodwill for mankind!

Drumbeat

drumbeat

It’s in your head
the endless thrum
So many dead
and more to come

Jobs have left
and jobs returned
The poor look up
entreaties spurned

Stuff in the street
from jobless folks
To make an omelet
you break some yolks

The beat goes on
there is no end
Hope flees the scene
and madness trends

We blame each other
and people dance
To see the split
between our brothers

So turn it off
and lift your head
Work for the good
and mourn the dead

Pick up the pieces
and heal yourself
Give in to your
much better self

Time to reach out
to the other side
We already know
too many died

Sweep up the ruins
without a fuss
Build it back
for all of us