A Father’s Letter to Santa

Dear Santa,

 

It’s been several decades since my last letter – sorry about that, life got a little busy. As my kids get ready to write letters to you, I thought I’d tag along this time. This year, more than ever, I need to believe in some holiday magic. So how about indulging this “big kid” with my own list of wishes for Christmas?

I wish that all families can celebrate this season together. As restrictions become lighter, and vaccination rates are higher, we’re long overdue for a “normal” holiday season. Let’s shed the judgmental ugliness that this pandemic brought out in one another, put our differences aside, and just gather for the sake of healing and reuniting our family ties.

I wish for more families to help each other out. If you’re fortunate enough to have uninterrupted income during the pandemic, maybe you can reach out and help another family. Look to contribute to local charities that help with shelter, food or presents. And if you are a parent in need, it may be time to put that pride aside and tap into these resources.

I wish for an uninterrupted school year. So many of our kids struggled academically and emotionally during at-home learning. They need the time to catch up and to ease back into the beautiful and social world of childhood friendships.

I wish for more courage. Let our kids (and parents too!) find the courage and perseverance they need to get through tough times. Whether it’s dealing with a school bully or the loss of a family member, let their hearts mend quickly after being hurt. 

And finally, I wish for more kindness. I wish we all had a bit more patience with one another and treated everyone with more kindness. We’re all carrying more baggage than usual and dealing the best we can with this tumultuous past year. Let’s try not to anger so quickly, let’s learn to breathe slower, and show compassion for those around us.

Thanks for hearing me out Santa. I know I’m asking for a lot, but I have faith in my fellow parents out there. We all have it in us to teach our kids to be good people through our example.

 

Yours truly,

Frank 

 

Frank Emanuele is a proud father of two boys, a special education teacher, and a director of Dad Club London.