Dear Santa, Dear Fate Monster, Dear Whom it May Concern,

Dear Santa, Dear Fate Monster, Dear Whom it May Concern,

I'm writing not to ask, but rather to say thanks. I never really make a list because I know my family doesn't have a lot to give by way of presents or money or gifts.  Love has always been readily given, and that's all I really need.

I'd like to think I didn't ask for anything this year, but we both secretly know I wanted them. I got to spend Thanksgiving with my father and the tail end of Christmas with him and his wife.  My mother and my brother were here the week before. The chance to hug them all was the best gift you could have given me. So I'm writing this letter to say thank you for every blessing you delivered throughout the year.  And one day, when I'm needed most, I hope I can return your generosity, and bless someone with just my presence and my arms.  The smile on my mother's face and the tears of joy in her eyes were worth more than a hundred presents under the tree.  And my father's proud smile when he saw me in my shirt and tie just after work was sweeter than any pie he could ever made.  My brother's excitement to share his art with someone who appreciates his creativity, was worth more than seeing who had the biggest present.

I'm happy.  This year you've delivered more than my fair share of blessings.  It's been a long tough year, but I've survived tougher and harder.  Still, there were times when I didn't know if I'd make it through.  I've carried a broken heart for a while, and it still aches, but its starting to heal.  You guided me to a simple but beautiful home for me and my two beautiful girls.  At times there were days, that I'd not had anything to eat, and my glorious pride ensured that I'd never ask for help.  Yet, somehow, as if they knew, an angel would share a meal with me.  Through left over mashed potatoes and cups of cool soup, I've learned to appreciate all of the amazing people you've sent my way.  In different ways, they became a part of my essence and my soul.  Most of all, they helped keep my hope alive.  A small flame perpetually flickering in the dark, they helped me tend to my fire, keeping my hope and passion alive.

My greatest blessing this year, was the realization that I'm most proud of my passion.  For so long, I tried to hide it, because it was strange and misunderstood by others around me.  But it's something that I'm proud, rather than ashamed of now.  It's a gift that others may not understand, but a gift that I'll no longer hide from the world.  Rather, I'd like it to be shared.

Thank you for the miracles and all of the beautiful people you have guided me to this year.  And especially, thank you for this last grand finale with my family.  I could not have asked for more.  I got all I wanted for Christmas resting in my heart.

Sincerely,
Luke Disher 2014