Reviews from

Beyond Belief

A Christmas Poem

37 total reviews 
Comment from Paul Manton
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

One of my favorite Christmas poems this year, Jessica.
My long tenure with Grade 6 children is exactly where this poem goes - a real change from childhood into emerging young women, with an horizon which expands exponentially! Yes, the 'Santa' figure is redefined - but you have it exactly right - it is now WE who become the givers rather than merely the receivers - and as such we are part of a loving community, with new challenges and responsibilities.
How wonderful for every parent as their little girl moves into the next part of her life. I think that's a miracle every time.
Paul

 Comment Written 28-Dec-2023


reply by the author on 30-Dec-2023
    Paul, I am deeply moved by your words. My daughter is right here. She's in fifth grade but she's in her first year of middle school. I am so grateful for your encouraging comment and have no doubt that you have been a blessing to many children.
    Thank you. Xoxo
    Jess
reply by Paul Manton on 31-Dec-2023
    'Charlie's Christmas Omnipuss' is written for Grade 4-6 children. It's in book form here if you can download it. Otherwise, ask me and I will email it to you.
    'paulikann@me.com'

    Love to both of you from Paul + Charlie
Comment from CrystieCookie999
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

I really liked reading this poem. One is always inspired by the next generation when they look to something new and better. It reminds me of the time some third or fourth graders asked me to tell them the truth about Santa Claus. Two other teachers said another substitute had put it rather bluntly. I could only think of saying, "He was a real person...but now everybody helps."
Here's an excellent result of service:
Her spirit soars with those she lifts

 Comment Written 27-Dec-2023


reply by the author on 30-Dec-2023
    You sound like an incredible teacher. I absolutely love that response.
Comment from Mintybee
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

The natural rhythms and rhymes flow smoothly, drawing the reader into the story. The touching tale of childhood magic replaced by adolescent ambition to change the world was inspiring.
Mintybee

 Comment Written 26-Dec-2023


reply by the author on 26-Dec-2023
    Mintybee, thank you so much. That means the world!
    Xo
Comment from Boogienights
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

All I can say is, you are raising your daughter right! This is a lovely poem, you must be so proud of her. I wish more young people had such giving hearts. Thanks for sharing.

 Comment Written 25-Dec-2023


reply by the author on 26-Dec-2023
    Thank you so much. That means the world!
    Xo
Comment from Wendy G
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

A beautiful poem moving from a child's distress and dismay at losing some of the innocent magic of childhood to a different kindof knowledge. She is now aware that she herself can make a difference, and she herself can weave some magic in the lives of others less fortunate. Congratulations on your poem, and on your mothering. Bless you and your daughter for your compassion. Best wishes for the contest.
Wendy

 Comment Written 25-Dec-2023


reply by the author on 26-Dec-2023
    Wendy, thank you so much for your beautiful words. They meant the world!
    Xo
Comment from zanya
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

The true spirit of Christmas shines out here from these delightful stanzas told in rhyming quatrains - life's stages move along and young hearts blossom.

 Comment Written 24-Dec-2023


reply by the author on 26-Dec-2023
    Thank you so very much xoxo
Comment from estory
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

Your poem really articulates the journey from a child's experience of Christmas, to an adult experience of it. The magic of Santa and his sleigh full of toys flying behind the reindeer might be lost, but the magic of finding the joy in giving to others around us who are in need far outweighs it. Nicely penned, my friend. Merry Christmas. estory

 Comment Written 24-Dec-2023


reply by the author on 26-Dec-2023
    Thank you, I appreciate that so much. Merry Christmas! Xo
Comment from Ginda Simpson
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

We mothers know that it disappoints us as much as them, to learn that Santa is not "real." But your poem illustrates that our children learn in their very homes and how they were raised, that Love is very real, and that it fills our souls. You did good, Mom, teaching this to your daughter and your poem is a delight to read. Merry Christmas.

 Comment Written 24-Dec-2023


reply by the author on 26-Dec-2023
    Thank you so much. That means the world to me, truly!
    Xo
Comment from Debi Pick Marquette
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

It's only midnight at my house, and I stayed up to post a poem and oh my gosh, at this rate I will be out of sixes by morning. This is my fourth one. But I must.

First of all, Morgan has grown so much just since the pictures you sent me last spring. And what a sweetheart who has the beauty, charisma and the heart of her mother.
How could she be anything but wonderful? Please tell that sweet Angel that I too, am very proud of her. Remarkable children don't just happen. It takes great parenting and so I am pretty dang proud of you too for the wonderful mother you are. Listen to me, you'd think I have known you all my life. Well, it feels like I have. Like I told you before, God brought us together only ten months ago and it feels like much longer. Seriously I felt that closeness to you from the start and before I go to bed I am going to send a fun Smashup for each of your girls, just so you know that when you see them that it is legit. It is from Santa.
God Bless sweeties and Merry Christmas to you and your entire family!
Thanks for the beautiful poem.

 Comment Written 24-Dec-2023


reply by the author on 26-Dec-2023
    Debi, you have me in tears! You truly mean so much to me and I can't tell you how blessed I feel to have met you. You are a true Angel and I love you! Happy Holidays xoxoxox
reply by Debi Pick Marquette on 27-Dec-2023
    You are so deserving of many. I wish I had one batch of sixes for you each week. God bless Sweetie and hope you and your beautiful family had a wonderful Christmas.
    If you have the time there is one of mine I think you and the girls might enjoy the music of children. It is called, come follow me and is promoted right now..
    Don?t read thepoem to them until you read it first tho. One part might be disturbing to them. But the music is a must. Trust me. LOL
reply by the author on 27-Dec-2023
    This is WILD! I was reviewing it while you were replying! lol
reply by Debi Pick Marquette on 27-Dec-2023
    .OMGosh I wasn't expecting that. I just thought the girls would love the music.
    Thank you Sweetheart!
Comment from Daylily
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

I truly wish I had a six left for this beautifully written Christmas poem and authors note about your daughter.

The wonderful response to choose to help others more unfortunate during the Christmas season, and even beyond, exemplifies the meaning of the season in that we are to unselfishly give of ourselves and share the love and compassion we hold in our hearts.

 Comment Written 23-Dec-2023


reply by the author on 26-Dec-2023
    That means the world to me, thank you so much!
    Xo