My Letter to St. Nicholas - 2022

 My Dearest St. Nicholas,

Writing to you, this year, has been a slow process. I have so much on my mind and each time I sit down to push my pencil across the paper, my thoughts stall. Trying to find a sense of peacefulness among all the external (and often internal) unrest has been a frustrating challenge. 

So, I will try to disconnect from the noise, if only for a moment, and pray my pencil can release some magic. Though, I will admit it is not magic that crafts a heartfelt letter or, places the ornaments of treasured memories on my tree or, even lights the Christmas candles that bring the holiday glow to the room. It’s more about believing that the words, and the memories, and the flame are there waiting to be more important than the storms that can dim my shine. 

I am an avid believer in the spirit of the season. That it brings hope to those who have sunk into sadness and disparity. I believe in not only finding my own peaceful moments but, that I am able to help others whose spirits are stressed. A grand idea, I know, but still, I will try. 

Believe that you can shine and you will light up the world because, I promise you, you are the world to someone. And that someone probably needs to feel your warmth right now. 

Embrace the broken-hearted; one hug can heal two souls. Believe that peace will find the unsettled hearts and the minds that are clouded in storminess. 

Believe the jingle of bells are the prayers of the penniless and fortune will find them blessed with hope. Who knows what that hope will look like? I can only believe those who pray are able to receive it in whatever form it comes. 

And, Santa, as in years past, I ask that you watch over my children. Shine your light on their path to peace. Allow them to forever believe in the Spirit of Christmas and in each other. 

Merry Christmas, Santa. And yes, I do believe.