Dear Santa,

I know I’m probably too old to be writing this letter. Actually, I know that I am for sure too old to be writing this letter. I know, that you know, that I don’t really believe in you anymore. But that doesn’t matter right now.

I’m writing because it’s what people do around this time of year. I’m not asking for anything. I’m not even asking you to do anything. It’s just that around the holiday season, the power of tradition really hits home with me.

I live for traditions and I know a lot of people do too. This is the time of year to put up a tree or decorations or menorahs or a kinara. It’s a time to eat a ton of food and see family and drink hot cocoa and celebrate being together.

In our family, it’s a time to read old books and watch old home videos. On Christmas Eve, we drive around and look at the lights in town and just enjoy the company of one another.

It’s also a time for new traditions with new people in your life. It’s a time to try something different. A take on an old classic if you will.

I think that’s why you, and the holiday’s, are so special. It’s this deep rooted tradition founded far beyond my time, my parents time, or even their parents time. It’s a time of love and joy and pretty lights.

It’s also a time to remember the tradition of giving. No matter who you are or what your faith is, the holiday’s are a joyous time. But they can be a difficult time for some. ‘Tis the season to give, give, give. Donate, volunteer, give your attention and love. Let us remember that not everyone is fortunate this season. Let us also remember that not everyone celebrates the same traditions, yet each one is valuable to that individual.

While I might not believe in you, Santa, anymore…I know somewhere there is a child who does. And that’s pretty special.

So, I guess I’m not actually writing to you. I’m just writing to the tradition of you. It’s a metaphor, see?

So to you and everyone else, remember… you make the reason for the season. You make it as special as you want.

Happy Holidays!