For the last several decades Hollands Holiday Lights has been receiving letters from Santa. The lists of asks from children have gradually gotten longer in many, but not all of these letters.
This season we have received letters that have suggested a change, as some children are approaching the holiday from a giving, rather than a getting perspective.
I wanted to share one with you, as it certainly boosted my faith in the inherent goodness that exists, something we don’t hear enough about in today’s news and social media postings.
I am typing the letter, to avoid any identifying information on its young author, following which you will see “Santa’s” response which was just mailed out.
Dear Santa,
Please give all my presents to homeless people, poor people and kids in the hospital.
Please and thank you –
Santa’s reply:
Dear XXXX,
After reading your letter, I shared it with Mrs. Claus, and then called a meeting of the elves and read it to them.
We all knew that you have always been on the nice list. Your letter demonstrated something to us even more important about you. You see while we have many children on the nice list, only some come to understand the true meaning of Christmas, that it is not about getting, but rather giving. Giving to those less fortunate is a sign of love, which tells us you are special and wise, well beyond your years!
Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves all work behind the scenes with groups of people that support those that are less fortunate to help ease the issues they are struggling with. Given the large number of people all over the world struggling with poverty, disease, lack of food, lack of a home, etc., we need the help of concerned groups of people as this is much too large to handle with our North Pole staff alone.
Mrs. Claus, the elves and I are extremely proud of you! We have more than enough presents this year so you can be given some you will like. Be assured what you get will not impact the number we plan to give to the groups I mentioned.
I look forward to visiting your home XXXX, so be sure to go to bed early on Christmas Eve!
Merry Christmas!
It was signed Love, Santa
As the saying goes, children are our future.
I hope everyone reading this has a wonderful holiday season.