I came across a question on Instagram recently asking the question, "What is Christmas to You?" The question immediately brought back memories of a Christmas I would never forget. It was during that time when my family was pinching pennies, and also during the time a certain type of doll was popular. I remember telling my mom that I wanted it, but as a quiet child, I never really addressed exactly how much I wanted it. She told me it wasn't possible. The dolls were far too expensive. My little heart dropped, but I understood my family's situation, and never asked for it again.
Wonders upon wonders, one evening during Christmas, Santa arrived at our doorstep with gifts for each of the girls. I looked at the stack of boxes, and knew instantly what they were, since the boxes were unique shapes. The whole time Santa visited with my family, I stared at those gifts in utter amazement. Was one of those really mine? Was it true? I assume our Santa was someone the family knew, but I never uncovered the secret of who he was, so in my memory, he is my real Santa.
We couldn't open the gifts until Christmas morning, but I was so excited to see it: my doll that I was never to have! I opened it up, and there she was, a mini me, with blue eyes and blonde hair. Her name was Gabriela, but I called her Gabby. She'd been loved and used over the years, and I'd ruined her hair by trying to do another hairdo, but she is a constant reminder of that Christmas day. The doll in itself has little meaning to me as much as the kind gesture some did for us by purchasing those gifts, and letting a little girl have a wish come true for once. It still makes me emotional today thinking of this act of kindness, and I still feel truly grateful.
How does this answer the question that sparked the memory? It's displays the spirit Christmas should be all about: kindness and reaching out to each other. Humanity at it's best, a light to those who need light, all in the name of He whom we celebrate.
