Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. Contrary to media reports and advertising, however, he does not live at Macy's. The magic of Christmas lives in the hearts and souls of each of us.
The goodness and generosity of this holiday season lie not in shiny new toys, the newest and most extravagantly expensive gadgets, or that new car smell. They live in family, friends and simple acts of kindness.
No matter what your religious beliefs or ethnic background, please take a moment to pause and reflect. We are so busy racing through life that we don't stop to take snapshots and gather memories along the way. The new car will become old; the newest high tech items soon will be obsolete. But traditions and memories become more beautiful with age as they take on the patina of fine, cherished old silver. Each minute of every day is more precious than gold; each second more priceless than diamonds.
Stress, over-spending and that race to nowhere only leave us feeling empty and exhausted. Friends and family don't care if the house is messy; they would rather share time together to weave more experiences into that wonderful memory quilt. True friends don't care if your dishes don't match; they are interested in your ideas and thoughts, not the china. Who cares if a child spills something on the floor; savor the moment of having that child stir the cookie batter.
Look around you. Is there an elderly person you could include in some of your family gatherings? Is there a veteran or a member of the military far from home? Listen to what they have to say; share their life experiences. Tuck them away in your memory book.
During my recent shopping treks, I encountered two families who left a lasting impression. One family was shopping in a regular department store. I was struck by the bickering and yelling, but particularly by a little boy. He had apparently been given some money to spend and had $1 left. He was not going to leave the store without spending every last cent. Why not encourage the child to save that $1 or to put it in the Salvation Army Kettle? Instead, mom smacked him resoundingly, and the screaming commenced.
My faith in human kind was restored when I visited one of my favorite thrift shops later in the day. Two small children and their dad were shopping for a gift for their grandmother. They viewed and carefully touched the treasures until they found a small porcelain music box -- just the perfect gift. "It sings Silent Night," whispered the little girl as she held tight the tiny treasure, eyes wide with wonderment. The joy on those shiny young faces and the pride in their father's eyes said it all. They had stopped along their journey through life and created a treasured memory.
How I wish I could see grandmother's face when she opens her priceless treasure on Christmas morning -- and listens to it sing Silent Night.
Jacqueline Fries lives in Anchorage.
By JACQUELINE FRIES