BTW this tradition is kind of weird in this day and age that kids still are asked to sit on a stranger's lap and ask for things. I love tradition, but the fact that this one has survived the "Me Too", the scandals across media and politics, and everything else that has been spat at by public opinion; is either amazing or a testament to our greed as a society. Maybe it our hope that the spirit of hope, and giving that is embraced by St. Nick is still alive for one month of the year, even when the other 11 months it seems to be in hibernation. (Please forgive my snarkiness, I have lost a lot of faith in the fate of humanity without Heavenly Father this year.
In my family, my mom is notorious for finding Christmas all year long. This is not a bad thing per se, but always made the answer to Santa's question more of a, "Whatever you want to give me." far more practical than an object. Why? Because my parents went all out for Christmas and we got presents that we hadn't even thought possible for Christmas. Asking for something they hadn't already hidden away just seemed greedy.
But one year, when I was 10 or 11 I asked Santa for something....fresh flowers. Because I was a middle child, an oldest girl, and lots of responsibility fell on me. I just wanted even that image of Santa to not recognize me as one of the 'girls' or the 'Picketts'. I needed to be Rachel. For one moment in time, I wanted Santa/ my parents to think of me, not as a part but as a person. Guess what? the flowers came. Christmas Eve they were delivered and everything. I put the beautiful bouquet of purples and pinks in the entry way.(I did find it odd that it was not Christmas colors, but that was my mind back then).
Thus, my plea for all of us this year. Recognize one person everyday for the rest of the year. Treat someone like a human, with hopes and dreams, not just an employee, a child, a colleague, or another member of some group we participate in. See each other, for the glorious creatures that they are. Realize that even the darkest countenance once had light, and hopes, and faith in something greater than themselves. Allow them to be as different as the snowflakes that are falling around the country at this time of year.
Will this make a difference? Yes. It may not change them, but it will at least let them feel seen in the hectic rush of the Christmas season. I can suggest it will change you. It will get you off your phone in the checkout line. It will encourage you to smile, to nod, to ask questions, and to be a little more kind.
Merry Christmas.
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