The Jester’s Dilemma

The Jester’s Dilemma

Cameron had a problem, one that deeply troubled him,
It was really a choice to make; he didn’t know where to begin.
He had been offered a position with a prestigious company,
A significant step up in life, a chance to make more money.

He would leave behind his passion, doing his show on a small stage,
Move away to Seattle; leave his friends, but turn a new page.
He couldn’t make up his mind, until that fateful day,
When Cindy sat on Santa’s lap; and he heard what she had to say.

“Santa, I’ve never asked for much because there’s nothing anyone can do
I know I’m really sick, but I have a favor to ask of you.”
Santa sat there quietly, his wrinkled face concerned behind his beard,
But while he seemed calm and serene, he was not what he appeared

Santa replied, “What is it my dear, what is this favor you need?
There are many things I can do, I’m sure I can fill it indeed.”
“Santa, we heard our hero is leaving, he has a new chance,
He’ll be so far away from us, such a long distance.”

“Who is this hero of yours my child?” Santa asked softly.
Cindy replied in a serious voice, “He’s the best you see,
He entertains and loves kids, has always been there for us.
His name is Cameron; but you can call him ‘Jester’ if you must.”

Tears came to Santa’s eyes as he listened to what she said,
He slowly took off his cap and scratched the hair on his head.
For a moment he looked confused, as if unsure of what to say,
Then with a twinkle in his eye, he looked at her and said, “Hey!

There’s no need to be upset, I’m sure Cameron will do what’s best.
He has to figure out what needs done, I’m sure he’ll pass that test.”
Cindy looked at Santa in disbelief, as a child she could tell a lie after all,
But try as she might she couldn’t see one; she felt hope, however small.

The rest of the day was a blur for Santa, his mind was preoccupied,
With thoughts of a small girl, and the concern she could not hide.
When the last child had seen Santa, and all were put to bed,
The hospital director found Santa, his hands holding his head.

“Cameron, what’s wrong, you shouldn’t feel pestered.”
“I’m not,” he replied, “I’m not sure I can give up ‘The Jester’.”
“Don’t be ridiculous Cam, you know this doesn’t often come around.
This is your chance to do well for yourself, the kids will rebound.”

“It’s not just the kids Mark; you know I love doing this.
I’m questioning why I’d leave; you know it’s them I’ll miss.”
“Cameron, you know I love you, your talents sure amaze me,
You’re ‘The Jester’, and Santa, everyone loves you, can’t you see?

The hospital will continue without you, but it wouldn’t be the same
I’ve seen children smile here, at just the mention of your name.
Stay if you want, but I’m sorry, you know I can’t pay you more.”
Cameron smiled and said, “Mark its fine; after all, what are brothers for."

Jim Dorrell
12/13/10

If you're curious as to who The Jester is, may I recommend you read "The Jester" 

The rest of the poems that are about his life, love, and eventual death can be found in "The Jester Poems"