While reading letters written to Santa Claus last week from Jay Elementary students I noticed how many listed wanting a dog or cat to take care of and love. Most asked for the latest and greatest toys and video games, some asked for easy bake ovens and bicycles, and one kindergartener asked for a cell phone. However, a handful were humbly written asking for a pet ‘of my very own.’
One girl named Layna even asked for specifics, listing everything she would need for the special kitten: “I want a kitten so I can play with it…I want a kitten bed so my kitten can sleep on it. I want a litter box for my kitten. I want a ‘popo’ scooper so I can scoop ‘popo’ up.”
Noah Kimmons asked for a ‘little bird with a little cage.’
Possibly one of the sweetest letters was written by Lexi who missed her dog, Pixie. She asked Santa to bring the dog back to her. She described waking up and seeing the dog’s tail wagging and telling her good morning.
These thoughtful truths coming from children show the need for nurture in life. We all want to take care of someone or of something, even as children we strive to cultivate relationships with furry friends.
As a child, I had two favorite pets. One was our white German Shepherd, Bunny, and the other was my cockatiel bird, Frieda. Both animals had an impact on my life. I was amazed at Bunny’s patience, as she would find herself locked in my room with me dressing her up in bonnets and bows. She never complained. Frieda, on the other hand, ended up being a Fred but I never got around to changing his name. He would dance and sing on my dresser while I dressed for high school; he chewed my jewelry into bits, (if left unattended), and rode along on my shoulder whenever I was at home. Although, he was somewhat confused about life since his favorite saying was ‘Good morning, pretty girl.’ But that was my fault.
Both Bunny and Frieda lived to ripe, old ages. Bunny died in March, 1989 at 15 years old and Frieda passed away at 18 years old in the mid 90s.
Although those two live only in my memory, I think of them often and have shared many stories with my children about the imaginary adventures I had as a child in the back yard with Bunny, and the funny voice of my bird, Frieda. Although, I think they have enjoyed stories about my brother, Todd’s tarantula more.
Watching a pet thrive with affection changes a child’s perspective for the better. I believe they cultivate a respect for life. While reading those letters to Santa I had to smile. The generosity of those kind few gives hope for the future of our neighborhood. Even Santa’s reindeer was thoughtfully considered with post scripts written asking Santa to make sure they were well fed Christmas Eve and happy.
Merry Christmas!
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Dear Santa