Good Old Days: Letter to Santa Claus

By Mildred Olson

It was Christmastime, so long ago that most individuals involved are gone, so no one recalls just what year this occurred. But the memory is strong of this young boy's letter's to Santa Claus.

He was so tall and mature that everyone seemed shocked when he would answer their query, “How old are you?”

“I'm five.”

However, most of them would have been more than shocked had they read his letter. He urged his mother to help him write it, that is, put down what he dictated. His big brother was embarrassed and found it hard to accept when he read that he wanted Santa to bring him a doll, a dolly buggy, a little table and two small chairs.

His mom showed the letter to his father, who immediately—firmly, told her that they must tell their friend about their husky five-year-old's request.

Their friend, an M.D., read the letter and smiled. “There is nothing, absolutely nothing, wrong with his request,” he said. “He is bright, very smart, well adjusted, and one day will be a father. He is just preparing for that role right now and one day will be a kind, loving father.”

The doctor was right. That little boy grew up to be a star football player in high school and college, married a talented and beautiful girl, and had four children, who confirmed the doctor's prediction. That he would be a kind, loving father.

This did happen in the good old days. Santa did fill his request.