My Letter to St. Nicholas - 2019

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My Dearest St. Nicholas,

Another year has come and as I sit near my Christmas tree to pen my letter, I find there isn't much  you haven't guided me through already. There is still much for me to learn so, I will be ever grateful if you'd continued to hold my hand while I stumble along.

My tree, for many years now, stands proudly in the same cozy place. Each year new ornaments are added and they represent the special events and milestones that have happened during the year. My hands, that were once young, look much older as I watch them place family memories on the branches. But, my heart is content to know that old hands simply mean I have had many years with my family to collect those treasures. Some memories glow in the warmth of the lights. Others bend the branches with their weight but, the boughs are flexible, even strong, under the heavy burden. I suppose, Santa, this is your way of letting me know how important flexibility is when the weight and worries want to break my spirit.

My Christmas tree is a delicate collection of the life I have been blessed to live. My old hands, that were once smooth and steady, touch the joys of yesteryear and I'm often surprised by the tears that come. My heart is full even though there are loved ones missing. I know they are near, I can reach out and almost touch them, and I tell myself each light on my tree is their spirit shining through and their glow brightens my most cherished memories.

Yes, Santa, I do believe. I believe in you and the spirit of the season. Hold your memories close to your heart. Whether in hands that are old or new at capturing precious moments. Better yet, just hold hands with each other, or with yourself in prayer, and those memories will undoubtedly brighten your darkest moments.

Merry Christmas to you, Santa.

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