Acceptance
Santa Claus welcomes everyone just as they are. I never believed this garbage about “naughty or nice.” I received presents from Santa even when I did not deserve them.  His calling card was second chances in the form of mercy, compassion and forgiveness. He was a feeler, a healer and the ultimate care giver.
 
Personal Touch
I always had the sense that Santa knew me better than I knew myself. He went to great lengths to learn about my beliefs, biases and behaviors. He was interested in me even when I was uninterested in others. He did not exude projection bias by pushing himself onto me. It was never about personal gain to Santa. This mindset allowed his organization to thrive as the ultimate non-profit.
 
The Last Will Be First
He never gave up on me even though at times I gave up on myself. He modeled this behavior by having the most unlikely reindeer, Rudolph, lead his sleigh. He had friends in low places.
 
Give More than You Receive
Santa Claus defined the Christmas Season as the ultimate giver. He does not diminish people, he multiplies them. He modeled the true meaning of Christmas. It is not how many presents you receive but how many gifts you give away.
 
Expectancy
Santa’s arrival came with the hype of great expectations. Will I get the present I really want this year? What is hidden under the Christmas tree for me? Santa calls us to be the best we can be as we gift ourselves to others.
 
So, when the Christmas wrapping is stuffed in the recycling bin, the button on our pants is loosened from overeating and the Christmas cards are filed away until next year, remember the real messages of Christmas.
 
Accept people and their differences just as they are. Make folks feel like they are the most important people in the room. Never give up on anyone. Multiply don’t diminish. Expect the best of everyone.
 
Make these Christmas themes a reality today as they secure our inclusion promises for the future.