Editor’s 1897 message of hope still stands the test of time

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Francis B. Church, editor of the New York Sun in 1897, printed his reply to a little girl’s question, “Is there a Santa Claus?” And “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus!” was born. 

It has gained literary immorality because the message is as fresh and relevant today as it was 124 years ago when he wrote it.

For that reason, we are reprinting his message on this page.

“In all this world,” wrote Church, “there is nothing else as real and abiding” as Christmas. 

Borrowing from the words of my Uncle Tom Warden, publisher emeritus, describing the article, “He was referring to a tradition of love and caring — the embodiment of Santa Claus — that embraces the spirit of the occasion…a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, the one individual in the history of civilization who has done more than any other to alter, guide and influence human affairs and conduct.”

Christmas, perhaps, could not arrive at a better time, for it is here to focus our attention on the Christ-child, away from our troubles. It is his love that we need to acknowledge now more than ever.

Christmas is still an occasion that unites the nation and solidifies and strengthens the bonds that have made America the most advanced nation in recorded human history despite shortcomings and occasional distractions. 

We cannot forget that there are still those in our community who are hungry and homeless, without adequate medical care or decent jobs. 

Heart disease, cancer and other terrible afflictions menace our neighbors — young and old alike — and we must renew our dedication to finding cures as a nation.

Growing this year is a new cancer. It’s called #SantaIsntReal. It seems that some Gen Z parents refuse to allow their children to believe in Santa, fearing they will be traumatized when they discover the truth. Sorry, that argument doesn’t fly.  

“Telling kids that Santa is real is a lie, and I don’t believe in building my kids up on a lie,” Sierra McKenzie told the New York Post.

Robbing children of their belief in Santa Claus will not make the world a better place, just the opposite.

The “Grinch” failed in his attempt to steal Christmas in Dr. Seuss’ famous book. I believe the Gen Z parents who want to cancel St. Nick will also fail.

There is still reason for hope.

In this week’s edition of The Gasconade County Republican, you will find letters to Santa from area first, second and third-graders. A few weeks ago, we contacted the teachers in the local schools to help us with this project.

Their letters are printed on our special Christmas pages.

During this holiday season, take the time to read their requests to Santa. Of course, some do more than ask for presents. They ask about the reindeer, thank Santa for previous presents and more. 

Be aware we typed the letters exactly as they were given to us. This will give you a better appreciation for what Santa has to do when he reads children’s letters from around the world.

In past Christmas editions, we have seen children ask for nothing for themselves, instead making requests for their siblings or parents. 

We have also taken calls from parents wanting to know what requests were made of Santa after their child refused to tell them what they had asked for in their letter.

This special Christmas edition also contains several pages of holiday photos our cameras have captured since Thanksgiving.

The many businesses, individuals, churches and industries are making all this possible by delivering you a Christmas message during this blessed season.

Please take some time to read their messages of hope and good cheer.

All of this good news reminds us that, indeed, we have ample reason to be thankful when we sit down for a Christmas meal and thank our Creator for the bounty we enjoy. 

Much remains to be done before we can lay claim to being a truly benevolent people. Still, we must hope and pray that the spirit of Christmas prepares each of us for the coming year’s challenges.

Despite those cynics whose materialistic world denies such beliefs, there is indeed a Santa Claus…and it is with this realization that the staff of The Republican wishes you and your family a “Merry Christmas!”