Beyond the Red Suit

Discovering the True Magic of Giving

In the enchanting tapestry of holiday traditions, few figures captivate our collective imagination quite like Santa Claus. As children, we were spellbound by the jolly man in the red suit, eagerly awaiting the magical moment when he would deliver presents under the tree. Yet, as we grow older, the essence of Santa takes on a profound meaning beyond the tales of the North Pole. Join me on a journey as we unwrap the true spirit of Santa Claus — not as a mere folklore character, but as a powerful symbol embodying the timeless art of giving for the sake of giving.

ATTENTION TO ALL PARENTS WHO NEED TO TELL THE TRUTH ABOUT SANTA

Son: “Dad, I think I’m old enough now. Is there a Santa Claus?.”

Dad: “Ok, I agree that you’re old enough. But before I tell you, I have a question for you. You see, the “truth” is a dangerous gift. Once you know something, you can’t unknow it.

Once you know the truth about Santa Claus, you will never again understand and relate to him as you do now.

So my question is: Are you sure you want to know?”

Brief pause…

Son: “Yes, I want to know”

Dad: “Ok, I’ll tell you: Yes there is a Santa Claus”

Son: “Really?”

Dad: “Yes, really, but he’s not an old man with a beard in a red suit. That’s just what we tell kids. You see, kids are too young to understand the true nature of Santa Claus, so we explain it to them in a way that they can understand.

The truth about Santa Claus is that he’s not a person at all; he’s an idea.

Think of all those presents Santa gave you over the years.

I actually bought those myself.

I watched you open them.

And did it bother me that you didn’t thank me?

Of course not!

In fact, it gave me great pleasure.

You see, Santa Claus is THE IDEA OF GIVING FOR THE SAKE OF GIVING, without thought of thanks or acknowledgment.

When I saw that woman collapse on the subway last week and called for help, I knew that she’d never know that it was me who summoned the ambulance.

I was being Santa Claus when I did that.”

Son: “Oh.”

Dad: “So now that you know, you’re part of it. You have to be Santa Claus too now. That means you can never tell a young kid the secret, and you have to help us select Santa presents for them, and most important, you have to look for opportunities to help people. Got it?”

So, I am wishing that you will embark on a heartwarming revelation that celebrates the beauty of giving, a truth that transforms the holiday season into a radiant celebration of love, compassion, and the joy found in sharing the most precious gift of all. Help each other this Christmas and … be kind, loving, and generous. Merry Christmas!