Hi QCyclust family,
There are moments in life that take us by surprise, shifting our perspective in the most unexpected ways. I had one of those moments just a little bit ago. I stopped everything to write this, maybe in hopes of helping my heart to process.
So, yesterday, during our usual drive home from school, my youngest, who practically sparkles with Christmas joy, asked a question I wasn’t quite ready for: “Is Santa real?” His belief in the magic of Santa has always been a bright light in our holiday season. So, you can imagine, his question kind of threw me off guard.
I navigated the conversation as best as I could, explaining how the spirit of Christmas and the joy of giving are what truly matter. It seemed to satisfy his curiosity, at least for the moment.
Today, his question was more pointed: “Do you (Mom and Dad) fill the stockings, or is it Santa?” There was a certain understanding in his voice, an awareness that seemed like he already knew the answer. When I confirmed his suspicions, his sigh spoke volumes.
I was expecting some sort of comment about being sad Santa isn’t real, but he then said something that really took me by surprise: “So that means we won't have anything in our stockings this year.” It was then I realized that it wasn’t just about the magic of Santa fading; it was his realization of our current reality and that he wasn’t just grappling with the truth about Santa; he was also coming to terms with how different this Christmas would be. The Santa conversation was one I planned to have eventually, just not under these circumstances. And by no means was I ready for all of that mentally or emotionally.
This whole revelation absolutely made my heart sink. I found myself explaining that this year, things would be a bit different. We'd focus on homemade gifts, cherishing the essentials – love, warmth, togetherness. Yet, as I spoke, I felt the weight of his disappointment.
It’s in these raw, real moments that we find our true strength. This year, Christmas won't be about the gifts or the usual fanfare. It’s about being together, creating new traditions, and finding joy in the simplest of things. This year, we might not leave Santa footprints by the fireplace, but we'll leave lasting love, support, and memories in each other's hearts.
As I share this, I wonder how many of you have had similar conversations? How did you navigate these tough revelations with your little ones? I’d love to hear your stories, your struggles, and your creative solutions.
This season, let's embrace the different kind of magic – the kind that comes from heart-to-heart connections, shared stories, and the resilience of the human spirit. Let's remind each other of the countless ways we can spread joy, even when times are tough.
Thank you so much for being here, for sharing your journeys, and for being a part of my QCyclust family. Together, we’ll keep pedaling through life's ups and downs, finding beauty in every turn.
Wishing you all a season filled with love, laughter, and the kind of magic that only togetherness can bring.
Warmly,
QC ♥️