Lessons From Santa

Yes, Virginia. There is a Santa Claus.

—Francis Pharcellus Church, The Sun

Such a year! We’re going to countless festivities! The little ones are so excited… it’s hard for them to sleep. No sugarplums quite yet, Don’t forget: Aunt Martha is allergic to peanuts. The list seems unending.

But Christmas is here, filled with magic and wonder. My heart glows when I hear Christmas carols. When I smell the balm of freshly cut wreaths. See the sparkle of ornaments. Think of gifts I can make for giving this year.

Which led me to think of Santa Claus. He brings delight to children and adults alike. Watch a child’s face when they see this merry fellow, and you’ll be filled with the wonder of the season too.

Does Santa have qualities we can all learn from? I think so. Just off the top of my thoughts, here are some of them:

• He asks us to be good. A tall order, given the upcoming election and looming world events. Seems to me that being good is a state of mind. Moving past the other stuff and embracing the season can be a gift to yourself.
• He gives to everyone. Whoever they are and wherever they live, Santa delivers to all at pretty much the same time. He has a generous heart, without asking for anything in return.
• He reads our letters and listens to our requests. He takes the time to hear and pay attention. When talking, I work to focus on what another person says without any interruption. My attention is only on them, my gift of true presence.
• He has great psychic powers. He goes precisely to each child’s home. He comes down chimneys with nary a smudge of soot. Yet no one has seen him. And he does not give without thought: giving needs wisdom. Santa considers what would be the most appropriate gift for each person. (Children are often happier with the box the toy came in than the gift itself.)
• He’s filled with joy and lifts our spirits in the darkest time. And we can do the same for each other. (Much to some people’s dismay, I have a list of funny stories or jokes to share. Lighting other’s hearts is a fun occupation.)
• He takes time out for himself. That glass of milk and cookies? Santa remembers to take a break during his hectic schedule. And we can too. Put your feet up and rest your mind and body.
• He knows where we live. In other words, his spirit is inside all of us. Giving ---a smile, a listening ear, food, or homemade gifts — is profoundly joyful, both to the one who is giving and the one receiving.

Yes, there is a Santa Claus, and he resides in each of us . . . Learn from Santa. This holiday can be hectic, but the most precious, if you make it that way. Wishing all of you a very Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah!