Wish I were young again so I could still believe in Santa Claus. My best friend and mentor of 20 years passed away this summer, leaving a huge void in my heart. We know that Santa Claus is best left to the imagination of children. If I could, I would ask him to bring my friend back again. We all know that’s not possible. What is possible, though, is if we all showed civility and respect to all humans regardless of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation or disability. My friend would have liked that and so would I. Merry Christmas, Alaska.

— William Lewis

Anchorage