Something to Believe In

One of the most disappointing days of my late childhood was the day my Mom told me there was no such thing as Santa Claus. Yes, I was one of those kids who had to be told. I've always been a believer in mystical things and the unexplained. I felt quite comfortable with the idea that there was this amazing person in the world who gifted the fortunate and less fortunate alike with the gifts they had dreamed of the whole year through.

I was upset when she told me, but took it in stride until late March when I figured out that must mean the Easter Bunny wasn't real either. From that moment, quite frankly, I was pi$%ed. How could all the good things I believed in not be real? I felt robbed.

As I've grown older and wiser I've been fortunate to realize that my Mom was wrong. Santa Claus does exist. Yes, he does. No, he's not a fat man flying around the world in one night at warp speed giving presents to all the good little kids. He's an intangible spirit that inhabits us year- round and inspires us to put others needs first and share our God-given gifts with the world. We think of him most around Christmas because that is when his spirit is strongest.

Don't believe me? Think of this. How is it that around this time of year children who need warm hats and gloves get them? Families who don't have the money for a holiday dinner have one magically appear in a gift basket? He connects each of us with the experiences of gratitude and giving. And for the families out there who ask Santa for a special gift and don't receive it, I say it's because there aren't enough believers in the world. Those who believe give before they receive.

At a time when I need something to believe in, I take great comfort in the idea that Santa Claus is a real and true part of the world in which I live. I'm thankful that I have a job that allows me to give back to the world daily. And yet, I can't wait to breathe deep and invoke Santa's warm spirit as Picard and I wrap gifts to place under the tree for our future wee one. And no, I will never tell her that Santa doesn't exist. When the time is right I will tell her the truth. I will tell her that she is old enough to carry the spirit herself and share her gifts year round with the rest of the world.

Tree Trimming Assignments Assigned According to Height

Miss Dior skirting the tree

Captain Picard placing the topper on the tree

The "Kids" Giving Us More Parenting Practice

Pippa: I'm NOT licking you! Mom: Pippa, stop harassing your sister!

Mom: Put on the pretty bow so I can take your picture. Black: Agggh! Just take the picture already!