I know who you are.

And I want you to understand, your secret is perfectly safe with me, if you wish.

But I know if only people could experience who you really are, like I discovered first hand, I feel it would make a HUGE difference in their lives as it has me.

For you see, before, I only pictured you as a man. A right jolly old elf with rosy cheeks and a little round belly that shook when you laughed. Ahhh, and the dimples so merry!!!

What a picture of happiness you were!

A man who could do amazing things no other man could ever do. Traveling all over the world to deliver gifts in one night.

But that’s just it. I saw you only as a man. Not as your true form.

Then, I dared gaze into those twinkling, all-knowing eyes for the very first time, seemingly looking deep into my soul.

The way people normally see you, is only the surface part of your true self.

But the REAL you—now the real you—is an entirely different matter.

The one who was born in a lowly manger, Savior of the world.

The greatest gift was you!

The one who knows the hearts of all men, whether you’ve honestly been naughty or nice. But chooses to forgive anyway.

You are never jealous when your children give gifts to one another, in honor of your birthday.

It gives you great joy for us to have the desires of our heart.

With that being said, this Christmas I am writing to you with a special Christmas wish in mind.

A partridge in a pear tree from my true love would really be unique and treasured. This is true…

And when I was a little girl, all I wanted was two permanent teeth to replace the baby teeth I had lost.

Only a hippopotamus would do for dozens of Christmases when I wasn’t satisfied with what I had.

I also shamingly admit, there was a time I longed for a duplex and checks, so I would always have everything I needed.

But Santa, this year is different.

It’s not about the money or receiving stuff that can only get broken with time.

This year, (I humbly ask) my grown up Christmas list is to see your promises for me to come into fruition.

To touch them with my hands. To once again hear the praises of your goodness spill from the lips of my dear ones. To witness them happy again and living in truth.

Yes, Mr. Santa Claus, this year only this will do.