Dear Santa,

     Remember me? I used to write you letters many years ago, listing what I wanted from Christmas: tangibles like toys and games, mostly. But with age, my list has become much different now.

     The things that are important to me have over the years; switched from tangibles to intangibles. I’m not sure you can do much about that, but if you could, here’s what I’d ask for.

     Well, I guess I do have a few tangible desires for those who are hoping for them but have nothing because their families are too poor to give; kids who have only high hopes and deep regrets for being left behind because of the difficult circumstances of their parents or caretakers. See that they get taken care of mightily by some caring soul or souls who will remember them and still have plenty of their own without self-deprivation.

     Don’t forget the elderly folks too Santa. Especially the ones who are alone and feel the loneliness because they have no one around them who takes the time to show thoughtfulness and to give; even of themselves and their time. Send someone to stop and see them and make a positive difference in their day, even just by demonstrating that these recipients are indeed worthy of their time, kind words and thoughtfulness. 

     Perhaps you can instill in the minds of people that these folks are elderly and won’t have that many more years to enjoy Christmas, yet are often forgotten. People think of kids needing a happy Christmas, and they are certainly worthy, but the older folks too often go unremembered while kids have their whole lives ahead of them to have wonderful Christmases.

     That’s about it Santa. Just a hello from an old correspondent whose wishes have now changed, and felt it was time to send you a reminder of some of the things on my heart.

     Of course I want for people to know the true meaning of Christmas too. Can you convey that as Santa Claus? Kids trust you, so maybe you could tell them all about it. Let them and their parents and all people know of the birth of Christ and that they don‘t have to be afraid to say ‘Merry Christmas, they’re not bad words and it shouldn’t be politically incorrect.’ People are only afraid of it because they’re afraid it might be true, there might be a real God and then they’ll really be in trouble. Let them know why Christ was born and of His tremendous gift to mankind, if they choose to accept it. That’s the most important of all.

     Oh, and Santa, if you do stop by my house, I have a chimney cap on my chimney now. It’s designed to keep birds and other small critters out, so I know you will have a tough time of it.  Besides, I have gas logs which I intend to use and which would give a whole new meaning to having a warm welcome. Come in the back door for your cookies. They’ll be on a plate on the kitchen table, but keep in mind that I tend to eat them quickly, so you better not dawdle and get here too late.

Your old friend,

Sandy Dickson