A Sad Sack Christmas(Martha Hume) The Christmas season has passed me by once again. I found some comfort in the song " I ain't gettin nuttin for Christmas . the lyrics go on to say " Cos I ain't been nothing but bad. This. Isn't quite true. I received a fusion machine through a local raffle. I also received a juicer from the same raffle. I accepted the winnings and took them home. I failed to ask myself or anyone if the small appliances work or where I would put them. The raffle was exciting and I possibly became caught up in the excitement. The circumstances being whatever they were, I brought this dilemma on myself. I wanted to win so badly. I wanted to win the coffee maker or the crockpot. Those appliances would have adequately replaced the current appliances that are on their last legs.

A week. Later the Senior Citizen Center held a second raffle. This time I Used my tickets, six for five dollars, on things that I can use in my home that has no heat. The furnace has been broken for two winters now. With limited heat I took my chances on two blankets. My name was drawn for the throw. I am warmer and extremely grateful for the good fortune.

My complaint about needing blankets for warmth fell on receptive ears. Through the Senior Citizen Center, I was given a very warm blanket, a throw, and a homemade coverlet. I think it might be an Afghan or something. It is heavy, colorful and warm. I am warm and grateful.

Christmas time brought me a secret Santa. My basket contained a warm hat, some gloves, and a pair of socks. The warm clothing was deeply needed and appreciated. There were some treats. A Christmas wreath. and a very beautiful throw.

The maintenance man either lacks the knowledge to repair the furnace or it genuinely needs replacing. The excuse I've been given is there is a wood stove in the unit. This is true. However, I am relying on the generosity of two of my fellow seniors. There will come a day when this generosity must dry up. This plight falls on me every winter. This winter is different. I don't have an option to use the gas furnace.

The Trailer park has recently been sold. The new owners are more interested in raising the rent on low income, disabled, and elderly tenants. I will have to pay the increase, I have nowhere to go and no family close enough to take me in.

The new owners have discontinued the amenities. This is the first time I've had to consider the access to laundry facilities and clean clothes an amenity.

Looking back over this Christmas Season I must stop saying " I ain't gettin nuttin for Christmas. I got a lot for Christmas. I didn't receive anything the way I wanted to. Still the hot meal and gifts were there when I most needed them.

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