Dear Santa!
How’s it going, dude? I see you and the reindeer are hovering somewhere between Santiago and Havana, Cuba right about now. Me? I’m finishing up the last bit of gift wrapping I needed to do.
It’s been a year, Santa! To be honest, I wasn’t sure if we’d make it to Christmas. The hits came fast and hard and it hurt to duck. Bad knees! But here we are. Family has taken over my kitchen to prepare for Christmas dinner, the Pretty Princess is watching Christmas movies and my holiday decorations are lighting every room. It feels like Christmas and then it doesn’t.
Mom being gone has me in my feelings. She would have been tickled with all the goings on right now. And yes, I did that tree she wanted. Nine feet of red flowers has taken up residence in the living room and may still be here come Valentine’s Day. I miss her. And I miss my daddy. You know he was my personal Santa for years until a certain person spoiled it for me. May she forever get coal in her size wide stockings for being such a damn grinch! But I digress.
My list is short and sweet this year Santa. You know what’s been happening around the world. The current political climate has been a gut punch that keeps on giving. Warring factions continue to wreak havoc around the world and Satan and his minions won’t quit. We could all use some peace and grace this season. Politicians who genuinely want to help their constituents would be a nice treat. And leadership that isn’t self-centered, self-serving, and just plain selfish would be a nice cherry on top.
I know you and the elves can only do so much, but it doesn’t hurt to ask. Right? So while I’m asking, Big Daddy is in line for a truck. Something large, diesel, and red. The Pretty Princess would like to catch a ride around the world with you one day. Something about being a world traveler on her bucket list. And me? Just keep me standing, Santa. Keep family and friends close, and safe. And for all those standing in the gap, helping when needed, blessing strangers, and just being decent, upstanding people, show them some love from all of us who appreciate them.
Kiss Rudolph for me and hugs to all the reindeer. And take care of yourself, Big Guy. We’re not getting any younger.
To you, and everyone else, Merry Christmas, and until we do this again, have a very safe, blessed and prosperous New Year!
