In the shadows of a year unkind, Where sorrow and struggle intertwined, Mother's frailty, heartbreak's sting, Yet through it all, you’d softly bring— A light, a laugh, an outstretched hand, My steadfast friend in shifting sand. Manuel, you stood so strong and true, A guiding star when skies were blue. Now as the year draws to its close, I wish you joy as Christmas glows. To you and yours, warmth and cheer, A bright, abundant start to the coming year.