I have a deep love of all things Christmas, but Santa Claus is my absolute favorite. I can't see his face when it doesn't bring joy and warmth to my heart. This year we tried counting the Santa's. We stopped at (I think) 74. That includes ornaments, figurines, and plaques. When processing why I have such a strong reaction to him I thought, it's because He represents so many lessons and the values I try to live by. Here's my list...
Generosity: Santa Claus is the ultimate role model when it comes to generosity. He’s not about receiving but about giving, spreading joy and cheer to everyone, no matter their background or situation. The magic of Santa lies in his willingness to share, whether it’s gifts, time, or a kind word. His example teaches us that giving isn’t just about material things—it’s about showing up for others, offering what we can, and making the world a little brighter with each kind act.
Inclusivity: Santa’s sleigh isn’t selective—it’s open to everyone! Whether you're rich or poor, young or old, Santa spreads cheer universally, reminding us that kindness and celebration should know no boundaries. His inclusive nature shows us that love and goodwill aren’t reserved for a certain group of people. He embraces all cultures, traditions, and backgrounds, teaching us to build bridges rather than walls, and making sure no one feels left out in the season of joy.
Being on the Nice List: The "Nice List" is a reminder that our actions, big and small, matter. Santa doesn’t just judge us by one slip-up but by how we treat others over time. The idea of earning a spot on the Nice List inspires us to be kind, considerate, and thoughtful—because it’s not just about getting gifts, it’s about creating a life full of love and respect for those around us. It’s a gentle reminder that our behavior shapes the world we live in, and we all have the chance to be a little bit nicer each day.
Taking Time Away to Work: Even Santa needs some downtime to prepare for the big night. His annual retreat to the North Pole is essential for recharging, organizing, and reflecting on how to spread joy most effectively. This teaches us the importance of taking time away from the hustle and bustle to focus on what matters, recalibrate, and plan for the future. We can’t pour from an empty cup, and Santa knows that the work he does requires careful attention and occasional solitude to be done well.
Delegating: Santa isn’t in this alone. He has a whole team of helpers, from the elves to the reindeer, and he knows the importance of delegating tasks to the right people. It’s a brilliant lesson in trusting others and sharing the workload. No one can do it all, and Santa teaches us that leadership doesn’t mean doing everything yourself—it means bringing together a community of capable individuals, each contributing their unique strengths to achieve something bigger than any one person could alone.
Surrounding Yourself with People Who Complement Your Growth Areas: Santa’s helpers aren’t just anyone—they’re experts in their fields. Whether it’s building toys, managing reindeer, or tracking the world’s children, Santa surrounds himself with those who complement his skills and help him grow. This reminds us to build a team of people who bring out the best in us, challenge us to improve, and support us where we need it most. We all need people who fill in our gaps and push us to grow in ways we can’t do alone.
Love of Milk & Cookies: There’s something so comforting about Santa’s tradition of enjoying milk and cookies after a long night of gift-giving. It’s a simple, sweet reminder to savor the little things in life and appreciate the moments of warmth and joy that come from small, thoughtful gestures. Whether it’s a treat left out for Santa or a moment shared with loved ones, this practice encourages us to pause, appreciate the goodness around us, and remember that life’s sweetest moments often come in the form of simple pleasures.
Being Kind to Children and Animals: Santa’s warmth toward children and animals shows us that kindness should be universal. He treats everyone—no matter how small—with respect, patience, and affection. It’s a beautiful reminder that the innocence and joy found in children and animals are sacred, and we should always approach them with care and gentleness. This lesson invites us to nurture compassion and create spaces where both the young and the vulnerable feel safe and loved.
Grieving When the Magic of Believing Fades: As we grow older, the magic of Santa and the belief in his wonder can fade, and that can feel a little sad. Santa’s journey of spreading joy doesn’t stop when we stop believing, though—it evolves. This teaches us that while the magic of childhood may slip away, there’s a new kind of magic in carrying forward the spirit of giving, joy, and love. Grieving the loss of this belief is a natural part of growing up, but it also opens the door to creating our own ways of keeping the holiday spirit alive—whether through traditions, acts of kindness, or simply the joy of giving to others.
I hope your day is filled with joy, love, and lots of deep belly laughs. Enjoy the magic of the season while it lasts. Take the photos, eat the cookies, and create beautiful memories.
Much love,
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