By Jolly Old Saint Nicholas, AKA Santa Claus
Ho! Ho! Ho! It’s that most wonderful time of the year, where children of all ages have visions of sugar plums dancing in their heads. Families all over are getting ready for my arrival, trimming the tree, hanging stockings with care, and baking cookies for that magical night of the year. My elves and I are working at top speed, prepping the sleigh, getting the reindeer ready to fly, and making that famous list of mine everyone keeps talking about. And yes, I do check it twice.
Mrs. Claus and I were thrilled to be part of Pennsauken’s annual holiday parade again this year. It’s always nice to see so many of you line the streets of Westfield Ave. to help “officially” kick-off this season of giving. We also had a great time at your annual “Breakfast with Santa.” Before I leave, I always grab a couple of pieces of leftover bacon for the reindeer as a treat. You have no idea how much they love bacon!
During this time of the year, everyone tries to be good little boys and girls, regardless of how old you really are. It may have to do with the fact that I see you when you’re sleeping and I know when you’re awake… you get the idea. People are a more kind; they give of themselves a little more. Folks go out of their way to help those in need: a family who may be struggling during the holidays; an elderly neighbor whose family lives far away; those with no roof over their head. There’s a reason they call this time of the year “the season of giving.” And whenever I meet my “fans,” I usually start with the same question: “Have you been good this year?” For the most part – there are always those who have more explaining to do – the boys and girls I see answer, “Yes.” But the question I should ask more is “Can you keep this spirit of giving in your heart all year round?”
Many are on their best behavior because they know I’m coming to visit them soon. But what if each and every person acted like that not just during December, but all year round? That would make Mrs. Claus and I very happy. You and your loved ones might just be happier too.
So you better not pout, you better not cry, you better not shout… I think you know where I’m going with this. And be sure to leave me some cookies and milk. I LOVE cookies and milk!
MERRY CHRISTMAS! I’ll see you soon.
