A Christmas Tale

The young lad wrote down his 'to-do' list.

That is, the gifts he expected from God, or, St. Nick.  Whoever responded fast and first was OK with him.

A bicycle.

That was at the top of the list.

As was his praying daily to God.

Why the bike wasn't coming, he wasn't sure.

So. . .

After everyone left church one Sunday afternoon.

And, after another prayer for that shiny Scwinn bicycle, he stepped up to the sanctuary.

There, he has a word or two with Mary, the tall, blue statue depicting the Mother of God.

And, the icon for Catholics.

The one they go to when all else fails.

Well. . .

He carried her home, and, put her under his bed.

An hour later, he prayed for that bike again.

"God," he shouted.

"It's me again.  I want that bike for Christmas.  I got your mother!"