The Santa magic works wonders...
It is all about showing compassion.
December is here and the festive fervour sets in with the cheeriest of colours. It is also the time when children look forward to the holiday season, expecting Santa to reward them with presents for their good behaviour all year.
Every time I thought of breaking the Santa myth, my little boy would come rushing to me asking me to mail his wish list to Santa, and reminding me further to also write about his good behaviour. On seeing the spark of innocence in his eyes, I silently wished for the magic to continue. I just hoped that one day, he would work it out on his own or might hear it from older children in school. Until then, as parents, we simply want to enjoy sneaking around at midnight to make sure everything is set right for the little boy’s fun and excitement.
After 6 years of surprises, my 7-year-old son now begins to wonder who put the gift under the Christmas tree? He hesitatingly asks me “Mama, is Santa a lie?” The little man who looked forward to the gifts earned for his good behaviour, suddenly seemed doubtful, after hearing his classmates reveal that there is no such person as Santa.
Perhaps, it’s time to unravel the Santa myth without ruining the true spirit of the season. At some point in life, we do things that might not make sense but it makes us happy, and that is what matters. The moments of joy on one day can create a great memory even if it means that our children might pretend to believe in Santa just to make us happy.
A white lie is okay for as long as it helps children make an earnest attempt to be good to everyone in order to experience a little joy in life. The Santa magic works wonders when these little beings are encouraged to be compassionate and empathetic. The true spirit of the Christmas season lies in the joy of sharing and caring.
The man in the red suit may not bring the presents, but he certainly brings the thrilling experience of glee, anticipation and fond memories.
Every culture has its own interesting tale, but what matters most is how much of it helps in imparting good values and morals - Santa happens to be one of them. We just need to ensure that he becomes a motivation and not a distraction.
- The reader is an Indian stay-at-home mother and homemaker based Abu Dhabi
