A Christmas Poem

You don't have to get me anything.
But if you feel obligated, then know;
I like thought more than effort
and I like you more than gifts.

I love words.
So get me a list of them
big ones that I'll have to look up
and little ones that will make me laugh.

I love the color green.
So splatter paint a canvas with 50 different shades
and I'll pretend not to see the innuendo
but I'll see how much you care.

I love Latin.
So translate your favorite quote
and slip it into my back pocket when I least expect it
so when I almost lose it in my washing machine,
the surprise will be half the gift.

I love the sound of your laugh.
So if you can find a way to bag that like the winds of the world
I promise to only open it when I absolutely need it.

I love when things have meaning.
And I suppose that's what I wanted this Christmas.
And trust me,
you don't have to give me anything else.