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Heartwings Love Notes 963 - Santa Claus Really is Real

Heartwings says, "The many names for Santa Claus all spell love."

Christmas is coming. Children who believe and celebrate it on the 25th off December are eagerly anticipating filled stockings and presents under the tree. Family traditions vary, however. In our home, the only gifts Santa brought came in the stockings filled to be opened on Christmas morning. Those presents under the tree that was set up and decorated only on Christmas eve day, were tagged from family and others as well as we children to them. Thus, credit was given where credit was due and Santa got credit for the small, often useful gifts that filled whatever served us as stockings.

There is often discussion about what to tell children who believe in him. Some feel it is cruel to lie, and others enjoy perpetrating what is thought of as a myth. Perhaps the definition of real is the actual issue here. In my mind Santa Claus is quite real. He has been around for many centuries. He has had many names: Sinter Klaus (St. Nicholas), Father Christmas, Kris Kringle, Daddy Christmas, Christmas Man, Grandfather Frost. Some of these are translations from the original language, all of them reflect the spirit of giving we celebrate at this time of the year.

Do I believe there is a man in a red suit who comes down the chimney? That was how the poem A visit from St. Nicholas by Clement Moore set it up to appear. Those children eight or under who believe, have this conception of Santa Claus. However, there are many other traditions from all over the world for the giving of gifts. Some involve shoes that are filled rather than stockings or gifts beneath the decorated tree. Others involve different dates and transportation: a sleigh wouldn't do well in the Sahara Desert, but a camel would.

So, no, the chimney delivery is not part of my vision of Santa, but a place out of time associated with the top of the world is. There elves make magic and a jolly character with a big heart works to inspire the giving of love by those whose own hearts are open to it. That love pours down over the earth like warm maple syrup, sweetening thoughts and helping givers to share from their giving selves in whatever way they wish. The gift of a cheery smile--even behind a mask, a card, a phone call, a loving greeting is surely inspired by this wondrous person by whatever name and his helpers. What is more real than that.

May you give as you wish, whenever you wish, in the name of this season of love.

PS What are your gift giving traditions? How do you feel about Santa Claus? I'm always so happy to hear from readers. Write me at tashahal@aol.com or tashahal@gmail.com. For more Love Notes, check my web pages at www.heartwingsandfriends.com.
 

I love to hear from readers and would be honored if you would comment and let me know any suggestions or thoughts. If a friend sent you this, you can sign up at my web site, www.heartwingslovenotes.com, where more love notes can be found in the archives.

Blessings and Best Regards,
Tasha Halpert
 

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