Remembering what matters on Christmas Eve

For all the parents who linger in the doorways of the bedrooms, watching the sleeping shapes.

For all the babies who aren’t loved and have been forgotten, and who may grow up with a hard crust around their hearts because someone didn’t plant those kisses and give those hugs.

For every couple who adopts a child to save a life. For every young woman who has given up her child for adoption to save a life. For all those couples who have tried to have children but are unable. For those who’ve lost their children. For the children who’ve lost their moms and dads.