As we journey through life, there comes a pivotal moment when the enchantment of childhood begins to fade, taking with it the belief in figures like Santa Claus. I still recall the poignant ache that accompanied my realization: Christmas would never hold the same magic for me again. The thrill of gazing up at the night sky on Christmas Eve, hoping to catch a glimpse of a sleigh darting among the stars, felt like a distant memory. I knew I would no longer awaken in the middle of the night, heart racing with excitement and trepidation, at the sound of crinkling wrapping paper and jingling bells.
In the years that followed, Christmas transformed from a whimsical celebration into a routine family gathering. My siblings would return home, and we would reconnect with our cousins. We’d make light-hearted bets on which unsuspecting guest (often a friend or date) would fall ill from Grandma’s turkey—refrigerated on the porch—and who would be the first to indulge in her infamous homemade eggnog. There would be brunches, movie marathons, gift cards, and wish lists, but the magic? It was undeniably absent. The urgency to leap out of bed before sunrise had faded, as had the joyous squeals at the sight of soot-stained boot prints by the fireplace. Even the cookies lacked the sweetness I once savored. I resigned myself to this emptiness, accepting it as a standard reality of adulthood.
Then, quite unexpectedly, I found myself in the car, turning around with a playful grin, wagging my finger at my kids in the backseat, singing along to the radio, “You better be good for goodness sake!” I felt a sudden surge of joy, a moment of clarity washed over me. As I resumed my forward position in the driver’s seat, my mouth agape in realization, I recognized what had transpired: I had rediscovered the magic.
It’s my children. Their boundless belief and joy radiate like an aura, and those of us fortunate enough to be in their presence during the holidays cannot help but feel its warmth, echoing like a familiar tune. It’s in the way their eyes light up at the mere sight of marshmallows in hot chocolate or sprinkles on cookies. It’s in their shy anticipation as they approach Santa Claus, hands sweaty, hearts racing. It’s in their wonderment as they gaze at the twinkling lights of a freshly adorned tree, whispering, “I just love it.” It’s present in the twirl of a festive skirt, the sticky peppermint residue on their cheeks after a candy cane, and the excitement that fills them when they receive a new Christmas card in the mail.
This pure joy and unfaltering belief that characterize the youngest among us are both powerful and inspirational. It’s a source we should all strive to tap into, a sentiment that would benefit us all. This year, I wish for everyone to embrace that feeling, something I haven’t experienced in far too long.
Take a moment to appreciate the shimmering lights and ornaments as if seeing them anew. Delight in the sugary treats and festive decorations. Allow yourself to be enveloped by the magic that dances through the air like the falling snowflakes of the season. Embrace belief once more—in something, anything: Santa, love, each other.
Let your children guide you this year, illuminating the true essence of the season. Allow them to remind you of the certainties you once held dear, perhaps long ago. There will come a day when they, too, may lose that sense of wonder. Cherish this gift while you can; it truly feels wonderful to be back.
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Summary
The article reflects on how the author rediscovered the magic of Christmas through the innocent joy and belief of her children. It emphasizes the importance of embracing the holiday spirit and the lessons that can be learned from the wonderment of youth.