The lyrics tell the story of a man who has been laid off from his job at the factory, struggling to make ends meet during the cold month of December. He hopes that if they make it through the tough times of the winter, everything will be okay, with plans to move to a warmer place like California in the summer. Despite the financial hardships, he wants to make Christmas special for his daughter.

Meaning of "If We Make It Through December" by Merle Haggard

"If We Make It Through December" by Merle Haggard reflects the struggles of a working-class man facing financial difficulties during the holiday season. The song portrays the reality of layoffs, economic instability, and the pressure to provide for loved ones, especially children, during a time that is traditionally associated with joy and giving. The lyrics capture the internal conflict of wanting to create a wonderful Christmas experience while being unable to afford gifts, highlighting the emotional toll of financial hardship on family dynamics. The recurring theme of hope for a better future, symbolized by the idea of making it through December and finding warmth and stability in a different location, resonates with the universal desire for resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity.