HO HO HO!

Santa Clause is coming to town.

By the time you read this, on the 16th and 17th of December, Santa will have visited a home for developmentally disabled people: He went last year and had such a great time, that he went back! The people believe So, I think I believe, and maybe the spirit of Santa IS alive.

These wonderful peaceful people live together in a community, and if you have a home near you like it, then count yourself blessed to have such wonderful neighbors!

They will tell you about their lives, their jobs if they own one, and will invite you into their home, no questions asked!

They offer you honest to goodness hospitality, and love you, especially if you ARE Santa.

Then the next night, I was off to a dance for people with developmental disabilities, and here is where I learn a lesson in humility, love, generosity and that the world is often cruel, while on the same token, beautiful.

About 400 adults, ranging from the early 20’s to the late 80’s will come to the dance. Some bring dates, some just come and dance by themselves. They enjoy the music, and love each other for the most part,

As each one sits next to Santa, he or she will ask for a present, for Christmas morning, or will ask instead that their Mom or Dad be healthy again, or that someone come to visit them, expressing their loneliness and pain that encroaches on this kind of holiday, every year. These are promises not even Santa can keep.

There is no greater gift from God, than to have each other in this world. To share our joy and sadness is to live. It means we are all doing something to ease someone else’s burden. Making someone laugh at your own expense is not so bad. It tells people that you mean no harm, nor do you want anything from them, but maybe their friendship.

I came from a very loving family, and they still seem to be at this stage of their lives, having known me. There is a spirit of giving, and of laughing: both are gifts we could all use.

To all of you in this world who feel abandoned, alone and maybe sad, for what it is worth, I love you, and will keep you close in Santa’s spirit, and God’s love.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MSF (MY SPECIAL FRIEND) NANCY UYENO