A Christmas Gift

My father has been dealing with cancer now for three years. He has endured three surgeries, and is on his third round of chemotherapy. I love my father, he is my hero, he is one of the main reasons I am the man I am today. I can't say it hasn't been tough watching him lose weight, lose his hair, and at times lose his patience, but he has never lost hope. To me, he is the epitome of tough. I hope that when my time is through, that I will be half the man he is today. This year, as in almost all years, we spent Christmas eve at my In-laws with the majority of my wifes family, after we drove home, my two youngest children were busy writing notes to Santa and getting the cookies and carrots out. Molly carefully counted out 8 small carrots, double checking for accuracy as she wanted to make sure each reindeer received a bit of nourishment. Before I went to bed, I read each of their notes, Mollys was great, asking Santa about getting around the world to all the children, and making sure she was on the "nice" list. It was Dylans note that was a gut punch, one of those moments as a parent when you realize that, yes indeed, my children do get it, they really understand the reason for the season. Dylan, my wonderful 11 year old had written a note to Santa that was as loving and selfless as I have ever read. The shortened version goes like this: Dear Santa, I hope you are having a Merry Christmas. I don't care if I don't get anything that I wanted for Christmas, could you please just pray for my Grandpa. WOW! I was awestruck, and had to clear the tears from my eyes (acutally both my wife and I had a hard time seeing for a few seconds there). When I saw my parents on Christmas day, I shared with them what Dylan had asked. My father was moved to tears, and hugged Dylan and told him how proud he is of him. Dylan, being somewhat shy, but understanding the enormity of what his Grandfather was saying to him, teared up too. I guess that my kids really are listening and learning, and that makes me one proud parent.