The Tooth Fairy has stopped visiting and the Easter Bunny has hopped away, but Santa Claus lives forever. Despite this age of cynicism, in which childhood faith is often lost too soon, there is comfort in knowing there is a greater good existing beyond all of us. For many people this holiday season Santa is that “greater good.”
He is not just the man in the big red suit who comes around to fill our stockings and put presents under the tree. No, he represents much more than that. This is why I am declaring myself a true believer in Santa Claus. Don’t be fooled, there are others out there, over the age of 5, who still believe. In fact, it is these true believers who have kept the spirit of St. Nick alive through the passing of many holidays and centennials.
On Sept. 21, 1897, Virginia O’Hanlon wrote a letter to the editor to New York’s Sun newspaper, in which she asked if there really was a Santa Claus. The editor’s response would soon become one of the most famous declarations of Santa’s long-lived support. His reply: “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy...”
That last line rings true even to this day. As sure as love, generosity and devotion exist in this world so shall Santa. As sure as smiles continue to brighten students’ faces when recounting their childhood “Santa experiences,” so shall he live on in their smiles. And as sure as the human capacity to give continually shows itself during the holiday season, so shall the true meaning of Santa be recognized.
After all, giving is what he is truly about. Giving is what we, as a human race, are about.
He may not be manifested into the fat man in the red suit, but his spirit is alive in all of us. Beyond religions, beyond race or divisions there still exists this jolly fellow who inspires us to be better and to give more. This holiday season be a believer. Spread his joy and message of selflessness. Help your fellow man, especially those in need. That is what the holiday is for.
So, yes, Kirkwood High School, there is a Santa Claus, if only we can keep the faith.