I believe in Santa

I LOVE Santa Claus. I know some people think he takes away from the true meaning of Christmas, I think he ADDS to it. There is something magical about Santa. He is so much more than a jolly, white haired man who brings toys to children on Christmas Eve. He brings such joy to everyone around the world and perfectly embodies the spirit of generosity. Think of all the faith little children around the world have in Santa. I think it’s sad when people do not participate in the magic of Santa. He symbolizes the teachings of Christ. All the symbols of Christmas have a deeper meaning…

And Santa whispered, "Teach the children the true meaning of Christmas…"

• The Star: A heavenly signs of prophecy fulfilled long, long ago- The shining hope of mankind.
• The Color Red: The first color of Christmas, symbolizing that Savior's sacrifice for all.
• The Fir Tree: Evergreen- the second color of Christmas shows everlasting light and life. The needles point up to heaven.
• The Bell: Rings out to guide lost sheep back to the fold, signifying that all are precious in His eyes.
• The Candle: A mirror of starlight, reflecting our thanks for the star of Bethlehem.
• The Gift Bow: Tied as we should all be tied together in bonds of goodwill forever.
• The Candy Cane: Represents the shape of the shepherd's crook, used to bring lost lambs back to the fold.
• The Wreath: A symbol of the never ending eternal value of love…having no end.

That was an abridged version of one of my favorite Christmas writings. Click here for the full version.

And just for FUN different names for Santa Claus around the world.

In the United States, Canada, and the UK he’s called Santa Claus, Father Christmas, St Nicholas, and Kris Kringle.
In Costa Rica, Colombia, and parts of Mexico, the gift bearer is el Niño Jesus, "the infant Jesus."
In Brazil, Spain and Peru, he's called Papa Noel.
In Italy, he is known as Babbo Natale.
In China, he is called Shengdan Laoren.
In France, he's known as Pere Noel.
In Germany, he is known as either Christindl, or the Christ Child.
In Morocco, he is known as Black Peter.
In Japan, he is is called Santa Claus or "Santa No Ojisan," meaning "Uncle Santa."
Jultomten visits the children of Sweden, while På Norsk or "Julenissen" visits those in Norway.
In the Netherlands, he is called Kerstman.
In Finland, he is called Joulupukki.
The Dutch call him Sinter KlaasHe.
In Russia, he is called Ded Moroz (Grandfather Frost).