December 5 A Secret Santa

Most kids are like me, I guess, and realize either that there is no chimney or the bike/gift clearly came from a store.  I'm guessing some more curious than me unearth evidence of parental involvement. Yet, most kids just cruise along with the story because frankly who in their right mind would risk the pile of loot?  

As a parent and a teacher of younger kids, I have been questioned many, many times about the bearded gift deliverer. I have skirted the reality with a truth that echoes my heart and belief in the goodness of man and the possibilitiy of holiday miracles.  I never say, "Of course he is real," but I never bluntly say he is not real.  Children seem happy that we share a "secret" and I am not going to rock the boat!

Today, I brought a stack of books to one of those book boxes to share what my own grands no longer are reading. I guess I lingered a moment as I put the Grinch in the box and thought of how the story is part of my fiber.  "Christmas, perhaps, doesn't come from a store.  Christmas, it seems, is a little bit more." My eyes got teary. 

A little guy, not more than 5, asked if he could have the book. Then, he leaned in as if HE was the bearer of critical news.  "You know the Grinch is not real" he said softly "but I am almost positive and pretty sure that there is a real Santa who my dad helps."  I smiled.  We shared his secret. No words were needed.