CHRISTMAS: Don't forget the savior

Dear Jesus,

Since I was 2 and first knew about you, my heart felt happy inside. Then the bigger I grew and the more that I knew, I wonder are you really true? I sure don’t like the way things are, but I am just a child don’t you see? No one seems to listen to me.

Maybe if they could just hear what I have to say, people everywhere would be OK.

I love books, my favorites are about the prince who saves the princess and kingdom from evil things. I can always find these books in my school library. You’re a Prince that saved the whole world. Why can’t I find any books about you?

Big people say that’s because you’re Religion. What is religion? I have gone to church and learned “God the Father” created all things on heaven and on Earth, and that you are his son sent to teach us right from wrong. That you died for our sins and rose again as we will one day, if we give our lives to you.

In school we have Christmas vacation to give presents for your birthday. Daddy and mommy get so angry because they have to spend so much money; I thought Santa Claus brought our presents from his shop at the North Pole. That’s really what makes me wonder!

By the way who is Santa Claus? We sure hear lots about him on YOUR birthday! On my birthday, people only care about me! That’s why I feel so sad about you, don’t you see? Because at school we can talk about Santa Claus, but we can’t talk about you. So why do we have Christmas vacation? Isn’t that when we are supposed to celebrate your birthday?

Your birthday party is so much bigger than mine, with Christmas trees, ornaments and the smell of pine. Bright lights are everywhere, but about you no one even seems to care.

I am so sorry Jesus about the things we have done to you. Forgive us, I pray, and teach how to truly celebrate your birthday.

We love you Jesus.

LAURA DITEMAN

Hayden