LITTLE CHILDREN HAVE BIG CHRISTMAS WISHES

I recently spent time with a first-grade class that was made up of mainly low-income, Hispanic kids. The school was within a few miles of Atherton, one of the wealthiest neighborhood in California.

 

We were discussing the upcoming holidays and the students were expectedly shy when one boisterous boy yelped, “I can’t wait for Santa!” The climate immediately changed. All the students sparkled with thoughts and anticipation of Santa’s visit. Their lists to Santa included exactly what you would expect. One bright-eyed little girl requested a toy puppy for Christmas, which was followed by three other students promptly jumping up and exclaiming they wanted, “REAL puppies!”  A timid boy murmured he wanted a “pumcuter.” His neighbor quickly came to his aid articulating, “He means COMputer.” This gave rise to many requests for iPads and Xboxes. Two kids asked for Chapstick, causing me to notice many dry little lips. Other wishes by these wiggly, silly six year olds included a horse, a thousand dollars, and a fairy doll. One smiley, brown-eyed girl asked specifically for “a Hispanic fairy doll.” Every appeal was followed by nods and giggles.

Their desires were not exclusively self-centered. They also spoke of their hopes and desires for the people they loved, mom being at the top of the list. When talking about their families, they visibly became calmer and serene, many whispering their requests. The reverence for their families was palatable.

A student with special education needs wanted me to know he was very satisfied with his own situation but put in an appeal for his brother. "My Christmas wish is for Santa to bring my little brother presents because I already have enough." A little girl named Gabriella - she loudly spelled out her name so there was no confusion - wished that her sister could walk. I was struck with concern but my worries were assuaged when I discovered that Gabrialla’s sister just turned one.

Kaley wanted help for her mom, “so she could buy food.” Martin wanted to give his sister a necklace and Luis wanted a chair for his dad. Roberta wanted to help her mom make cupcakes and Alexander wanted to buy his mom flowers. Aylin, Alexa, and Maria all wanted a car for their moms.

Clearly these energetic, animated and bright young children have well thought out aspirations for themselves and their loved ones. These kids, who have very little, give to the world all that money can’t buy. I took with me their enthusiasm for life and optimism for the future and left feeling very much the spirit of Christmas. If you are in need of more holiday cheer and wish to be lifted to happy heights and filled with love and compassion, there is plenty to be had and it’s free for the taking. Simply talk to a child about their hopes and dreams.

Contact Margaret Lavin at elementarydays@gmail.com.