A tradition I always loved at camp was celebrating Christmas in July. I have no idea why, but it was something we did and we had a tree, sang carols and even had little presents for the campers.

I don’t remember how I found out there was no Santa Claus. I remember believing, but I can’t recall any traumatic dashing of my belief. I do believe in all things Christmas.

I believe in that joy of a new birth, the tiny baby born to love and to teach all of us how to love. I believe in giving, in sacrificing for others, in bringing joy and hope to others. I believe in good will, in treating others with kindness and respect. I believe in happiness, in the warmth of twinkling lights, the rich scent of pine, the sparkle of tinsel and the shine of glass ornaments.

I believe that a humble beginning, being born alongside the warmth of animals in a stable, can rise to become the greatest among us. I believe, therefore, in the spirit of who and what Santa Claus stands for. I believe in family, and what better time to gather together than Christmas? It is communion with laughter, memories, catching up, playing, and eating the most delicious foods-some of which are only seen at this one time of the year.