A wish for Christmas

12 - 14 years

The Town Square was beautiful – light gleaming from every corner and warm fragrances of Christmas pudding filling the air. It was the eve of Christmas. Shops were full of people and little children rallying around a most magnificent Christmas tree in the Square. Poor Susan sat huddled by the tree hoping for some handouts.

"Who'd care for a poor girl on a busy eve as this?" thought Susan, sighing. She has been a beggar all along and her priority was food. But looking at all those children with gifts, all she hoped for was Christmas with a teddy bear.

Susan walked up to a big toy shop across the street. She drooled at the dolls, teddy bears and other stuffed animals, all sitting cosily inside the window box of the shop.

She shut her eyes and made a wish for one. Just then a woman came out almost dragging a screaming child. "I'm sorry Tommy, you're not going to have anymore," said the woman.
"I don't want this then," answered the boy and flung something from his hand. It landed close to Susan's feet. It was a beautiful teddy bear! Susan couldn't believe her eyes. She picked it and extended it to the woman.
"Thank you dear, but I think you deserve it better than my son, you keep it!"

Susan was overjoyed. She thanked the woman and ran off hugging her teddy. "Thank you Lord, for this," whispered Susan.

Zainab Lafir
(14 years)
Muslim Ladies College

Greetings to the New Year

The year has been concluded
2006 has come to an end
Another 12 months are in store for us;
Let's see what's around the bend

Let's welcome the New Year with joy;
Who knows what it may bring
tears or laughter, sugar or spice,
With joy let our hearts sing

We've overcome our obstacles,
Laughter has sprung from a tear;
So with wide open hands and merry hearts,
Let us herald the
prosperous New Year.

Nethmee Mallawaarachchi
(12 years)
St. Bridget's Convent