Dear Santa,

I'm too old to actually send you a letter at the North Pole, but if you're feeling amused, maybe you'll see this blog amidst checking your crazy list of naughty and nice children expecting your attention this year.

I remember thinking about Christmas a lot. What do you want for Christmas? Where's your list? I think I've always had trouble with the concept. Don't get me wrong, I like making wishlists and the rare time someone surprises me makes me feel special, but I always feel like I'm not asking or thinking about the right things.

I mean we're talking about a recognition of the birth of Christ, a time to reflect and celebrate.


I have trouble because many people claim it's only a hallmark holiday or it's stupid because it's so commercialized, so how can I steer in the direction of hope and recognize the significance while still giving and receiving gifts that are meaningful and reflective of this time of year?

I think a lot of people struggle with the question, especially in a time now where there isn't a lot of extra money in budgets.





The best I can hope to do is let people know that they mean something to me. Festivity in the midst of cold winter is comforting to me, even if other people don't like the frivolity, the carols, the lights, I do. I wish there was more honest Christmas spirit in the world and less empty giving.