by Brenda S Brown

Created on: December 10, 2009

When I was a youngster and began wondering about the curious fellow dressed in a red suit accented with fur, and sporting a white beard, who visited the homes of good little boys and girls, I decided to keep quiet about my suspicion.  Although it seemed impossible for one person, a couple of elves, and a dozen reindeers, to manufacture and deliver gifts for children all over the world, I was terrified to put my doubts into words.        

My parents suspected that I had discovered the secret, but they hoped my younger brother David could enjoy a few more fantasy holidays.  I felt isolated as I pondered the Santa dilemma; I feared that our holiday would change significantly when the Santa-factor disappeared, for you see, Christmas at our house was magical.  

Uncle Bill was the only grown person in our family who loved to play games; he laughed frequently, and taught children all kinds of magnificent things like how whistle, how to skip, and how to win at playing marbles.   He wanted folks to be happy, and was the first to comfort those who were dealing with problems.  When he sensed that I was wresting with a crisis, he knew exactly what to say.   

Let me explain some important details about this individual we call Santa Claus he said quietly as we rested on the back steps of Nanny’s farmhouse, he is real, he exists in my imagination, and he can live in yours.  In Germany the children believe in Christkind, in Russia St. Nicholas is the patron saint of children, and in England they know him as Father Christmas.  It is no coincidence that we commemorate our holiday on the day that the baby Jesus was born in Bethlehem.    

No matter your age, you never have to let go of the magic; you can keep the enchantment alive, just like I have chosen to do.    Santa is alive and well; he promised, I know, because he lives right here. When he patted the right side of his chest, and smiled, I understood what had been bewildering before our conversation.   The Santa that children imagine and the one that adults envision might not be exactly the same, but the spirit of the season is the same; it is all about love. 

Trust the fantasy Brenda, and enjoy the magic of the celebration; Santa lives in the hearts of generous and caring people all over the world.  Now, you too know the real secret about Santa.   

Learn more about this author, Brenda S Brown.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.