Never give up, always believe
To the editor:
Each year during Christmas at Historic Fort Steuben, we put out a genuine mailbox. The fort provides a table next to the mailbox where children and anyone else wishing to can write a letter to Santa Claus expressing their wishes for present of toys, clothing and games.
We have observed over the years that it’s not just children who are writing letters, but teenagers and adults. Each evening, I collect the pieces of paper in the mailbox and read each and every one.
This is where it gets emotional and hard for me to express. Believe it or not, I find letters that are written not only to Santa, but to God. Santa is only the intermediary. As I read these sincere, truthful words reaching out for help, I often find myself with tears in my eyes. I will share some examples:
“Bring daddy home.” “I wish I could see grandma again — I long to hear her voice.” “Please have my son call me at Christmas.” “Please have my family finally be together without anger.” “I wish for a loving dad.” “I want to fight less with my mom and for my life to figure itself out.” “I’m 11 years old and getting older, but I still believe in you.”
So, there are people in dire need of love, someone who cares, someone to help — someone.
Yes, these are letters to a man in a red suit with rosie cheeks and a big belly and a big heart, but, in reality, they are letters of hope. No matter your age — mine is 83 — never give up hope, never lose your fight and always believe.
Mayor Jerry Barilla
Steubenville