A Viewer Writes: All I want for Christmas...

Joe,

At this time of year, we take many things for granted. We overindulge, spoil our kids, spend way too much money, etc.

Let's not forget what Christmas is all about and not forget the kids - especially the ones who believe in Santa - so that they can get some things under their trees on Christmas morning. Keep in mind that it's not their fault that Santa skipped their house. They don't understand, they think they were bad, etc.

Let's help them all out by donating toys, coats, blankets, shoes, and any of the basics you might put into your own kids' stockings. Salvation Army, Christian Shelter, Carriage House, area elementary schools, all need help and will find a home for your donations.

And, get your kids involved, too. Every year, on Christmas eve after Mass, we would all go to Walmart and buy things for the kids who were in the hospital. (I called that day, and the nurse would ask their parents' what the kids might like because they probably didn't have time to leave the hospital for gifts.) After shopping, we would run home, wrap and label and rush over to the pediatric ward and put them under the beds. (can't do that anymore) My kids learned that Christmas was NOT about getting but about giving and that there were always kids out there who needed things a lot more than they did. It was a great lesson about being a good person and a good Christian.

Now that my kids are grown, i still do the same. I buy toys, bikes, anything that a little kid would want for Christmas and do my own Santa thing. Most of the time it's anonymous but i know the kids appreciate getting a little something on Christmas. You can give to other charities any other time of the year, but you can help make Christmas morning magical only once a year.

Here's a little feel-good story to share about someone else who made a difference:

http://www.foxnews.com/lifestyle/2017/12/18/girl-asks-santa-for-blanket-food-in-heartbreaking-letter-to-santa.html

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!