Christmas is that time of year where Joy seeps from everyone's pores. It's a time for gift giving and a time for happiness. It can also be a time for stress. Stress can come in many forms. Parents not having enough money to buy their kids something on their list, a boss trying to ensure everyone feels valued at work, a teacher spending their last to ensure every student receives a gift from their own pocket or a doctor trying to save a loved one to give a family a Christmas Miracle. The pressures of society and what they expect Christmas to look like and sound like ringing in your ears while you try to make ends meet.
I know you were probably expecting me to say, "As a foster kid Christmas was a dreaded time for me not having a family of my own." However, when I was a child Navidad was a joyful time I looked forward to.
Plus......
My Santa Claus drove a motorcycle!
Every year my sister and I as well as any other foster kids in the home would receive a piece of evergreen colored cardstock. On that cardstock it had one question; What would you like for Christmas?
We would ask for frivolous unnecessary things, Barbie's, glow worm dolls, and the ever so fun night bright (Loved those!).
The second week of December we would get dressed up and make the drive to the annual Christmas banquet.
Walking into the banquet I remember this huge hall full of foster families and kids, some who I had lived with before. The sound of familiar Christmas tunes would fill the air..….
Feliz Navidad, Feliz Navidad, Feliz Navidad Próspero año y felicidad….
Volunteers dressed up as elves would lead the various activities.
There was a gingerbread decorating contest, Mrs. Clause told stories, and we had as many cookies as we can handle!
You would never know that this was a banquet full of children who were looking for their forever homes.
We always knew when it was time for Santa to arrive. We heard the motorcycle engines roaring and revving up. The volunteers and foster parents encouraged all the children to run to the entrance of the banquet, pressing our candy coated faces against the glass. Eyes hopeful, bodies unable to contain our excitement as we jumped up and down.
Do you remember that hot chocolate scene in The Polar Express? Well that’s how my brain remembers the presents being brought in, only there wasn’t a song and dance number to go with it! (That’s my story and I’m sticking to it! Hey I was 6 year’s old guys!)
Every single kid received gifts that day, and I can only imagine how the volunteers and families felt when watching them open them.
At the time the gifts came from Santa and couldn’t anyone tell me different. Now that I am older I know that not to be true.
It takes a village to put together such an event, and I want to take the time to say thank you to anyone who has ever given their time or gifts to children in foster care for Christmas. It was extremely meaningful and it has left a deep impression on my heart.
My Santa Clause will always drive a Motorcycle…..
If you would like to give to one of these organizations please see the link below and thank you in advance, God Bless.
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