In the past there were pictures

of an old crooked man with a stick
like in the riddle, and a white beard

in a long point to the ground, and
next to him was a baby on the threshold

of the new year, the new god:
Lord Adonis, welcome to your house

Bethlehem, the house of spring
flowers, grain, and bread

Also welcome in Amsterdam
where we blast without believing

that evil spirits must be chased
away – it's an expensive pleasure

to celebrate that we live
hope for happiness, are grateful

and wish that the good continues
in terms of health and the courage

to trust in peace – if
we realize all of that, then

I gladly will put a baby
picture in my book next year