Dear Santa -- a Mother's Wishes for 2009

There are so many things I would ask you this year. I want to be sure I keep my list short. I know in a single night you will not be able to eradicate the world of all the ills it suffers. But my biggest wish for Christmas is that on this one singular night you are able to bring a moment of joy to all you encounter. Perhaps that is through a special gift you will bring in your sleigh - perhaps another miracle will be performed that night.

I am asking for a big grin and lots of love to be felt by all those in need of a reason to smile. These are the friends who have suffered much through loss of jobs, financial woes, illness, and other crises. A child's squeal of laughter or a thoughtful card may just be the perfect gifts for these friends.

I am asking for comfort for those who are desperately longing for something - desires for children that go unfulfilled, financial stability, a simple life. May a warm hug remind them that God still cares for them and is listening to their earnest prayers.

I am asking for joy for those who have experienced loss. Grief know no bounds and does not heed to time. Whether those losses have occurred recently, years ago, or are imminently near, help provide moments of joy. Maybe it's leaving the loved one's favorite cookies or watching their favorite holiday special. Maybe it's a phrase or a song.

I am asking for compassion for all people. Maybe it's an extra toy to share with another child or an extra box of food. I'm not talking used and broken toys or leftovers you'd feed to a dog. I'm describing shiny new things from your toy workshop and rotisserie chickens or oven-baked hams for a true holiday feast. We may not know how to be compassionate until we've received your Christmas gift this year. With your help, we can live abundantly and pass on to others what we have in abundance.

And mainly, Santa, I am asking you that in your own way, you help us hear a baby's cry. Not just any baby, but Baby Jesus. Help us be still for just a few seconds to hear the Christmas sounds ring true in our hearts.

While this time of year is a time of reflection, it a time to look forward. It is a time to hope. And that is what I am asking you this year Santa - to bring hope to all children, young and old.

Sincerely,
A Christian Mother's Heart