The Peripatetic Christmas Tree

As I entered the station at 175th St last night, I heard a strange melody rising from its depths. Upon arriving on the platform, I saw an apparently homeless man, bundled in many layers, and pushing a shopping cart down the platform. His cart contained the usual assortment of black garbage bags and tattered blankets, but on top, perched somewhat precariously, was a miniature but fully decorated Christmas tree. The man was slurring his way through several somewhat jumbled Christmas carols, his mournful tone in direct contrast to both the joyful lyrics and the twinkling tree. When the train finally arrived, the man did not get on, but continued to pace the platform, singing to his little tree.