Dear Santa Claus:
You probably don’t receive many letters from 60-year-olds, do you? Not that I doubt your popularity with the older crowd, but most aren’t into writing request lists. Oh, I still believe in you and all you mean to starry-eyed innocent children hoping to have their wishes granted. I think you are enchanting and more so because of your generous helpers.
Some people aren’t so keen in teaching their children about you, Santa, because they think children will be confused between make-believe and religious beliefs. I can tell you, I was never confused, and I was no child prodigy with vast knowledge of the world’s ways. God was God and you were Santa. Job descriptions and appearances were different. Yeah, I know, heavenly visions weren’t exactly my area of expertise, but the distinct roles of Santa and God were never confusing.
Your part was minor in my family, but it was amazing to me how you chose such great gifts. And when I found out you had help, well, it didn’t matter. The wonder never vanished, and it still hasn’t these many years since. We hear typically that Christmas is for children, and it is, but it’s also for weary souls too overwhelmed to believe in the sheer goodness of people. And it’s for those whose life circumstances make it nearly impossible to believe in anything much beyond today’s handouts. Some people snicker about the wonder and love of Christmas until one of your helpers shows them goodness exists in this world, if you just know where to look and how to reciprocate.
Your role has become less captivating, Santa, as merchants start displaying cheap imitations of you in August. Sleigh bells are charming in December, but annoyingly out of place in summer months. Wish lists are heavy into technology these days. Dolls and teddy bears aren’t list toppers. How you and your elves keep up with the electronic wonders is a huge wonder to many of us.
Since I’ve taken your time to read this letter, I suppose it should contain some requests. My wishes aren’t so tangible and they’ll likely not fit in your bag. You don’t even have to deliver them on Christmas Eve. Anytime will be fine. Actually, I’m not sure it’s appropriate for me to ask for presents. There are two adorable little girls dancing around my Christmas tree who are better than any gifts I could receive. My kids were fun, but grandchildren are purely delightful. I’m so grateful.
The economic news is chilling so perhaps you could deliver positive attitudes and some extra doses of resourcefulness. Many of us learned budgeting lessons long ago, but it’s difficult making those necessary budget cuts again. We all know money doesn’t buy happiness, but it can help provide security. Maybe double up on sense of humor deliveries while you’re up and down those chimneys, Santa.
Most importantly, help us remember what Christmas is all about. Religious arguments are often so contradictory to what we profess to believe. Help us find room in our hearts for everyone, not just those of our religious persuasion.
Merry Christmas, Santa! Hope the cookies left for you are your favorites, and the milk refreshing. Thanks for reminding us of the wisdom of believing in goodness and wonder and love. Happy Deliveries!
