By MAYOR PAM
I vaguely remember being very young and believing in Santa Claus. I knew that Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. I learned that Jesus represented hope, joy and unimaginable love. But Santa Claus also provided joy and love. Plus, he would give real presents. I had no use for gold, frankincense and myrrh. So, I was committed to believing in Santa Claus (and Jesus). At a young age, Christmas was always a time for hope, joy and love. I was all in on getting those feelings regardless of whether they came from a chubby old guy with flying reindeer who came down the non-existent chimney at my home on Tutt Street or from a little baby born over 2000 years ago in a manger.
As a person ages, he or she experiences disappointments, health issues and losses. Hope, joy and love can be tarnished by life and the Christmas season can be a sad time for many. Over the past few weeks, I have been blessed with many opportunities to see and experience the best of Christmas. I have viewed Christmas through the eyes of Kindergartners at the Primary Center. I have experienced Lance Burton give a magical performance at Summit Manor. I have judged several door decorating contests; seen several live nativity scenes at the Citizens Park; watched our police department stuff a cruiser with toys for children; been to the Payne family Christmas breakfast; and seen our hometown beautifully decorated.
Christmas, above all, is a reminder that there is always reason for love, hope and joy whether you are the wide-eyed child at the Primary Center, or the ninety-five year old resident at Summit Manor. My heart hurts for those in our community who have experienced health issues or loss this year. I am not immune to those feelings. But my experiences over the past few weeks have shown me there is still a lot of hope, love and joy in our community. My heart has been filled. My belief in the spirit of Christmas is as strong as it was when I was a child. So, I hope you still believe in Santa Claus (and Jesus}. I do. God bless you and God bless our community.
(Mayor Pamela Hoots – City of Columbia)