Believe in Santa

Do you believe in Santa? If you ask my teenagers, they will say unequivocally “yes,” because they understand that Santa is more than a person. He is the embodiment of hope.

Hope for a world where people love and care for one another. Hope for kindness. Hope for equality; and hope for a land of plenty.

Children come to a time when they stop believing in Santa, but they don’t want to reveal that to their parents just yet. Most children have seen their fair share of adult hypocrisy by this stage. However, this is the first time they’ve been asked to play along. Deep down they know and their parents know they know, but everyone acts their part in the play because no one wants it to end.

Santa comes into his glory at this time. Children realize that they can be like him; caring, giving, understanding, and jolly-good fun. Santa brings out the best in kids. This belief lets them play along and most are loath to reveal their knowledge to the younger set. The yearning for a true Santa conjures flying reindeer, sleigh bells, and hordes of elves who love children.

Santa embodies the elements of Christianity; yet he is easier for children to identify with than a small baby. Babies are cute; but they aren’t selfless. Santa demonstrates the Christian values in a way even small children can understand.

So let the stories and songs of Christmas ring out this season – both of reindeer and stables. Carry hope in your hearts and in your actions.

Merry Christmas