Editorial: Santa Clause is real in gifts that expect nothing back

We wish the less well-off - as we wish all our readers - a kind, a safe and happy Christmas. Photo / Getty Images

Editorial

A philosopher writing in the Herald this week, Massey Professor Bill Fish, pointed out that Santa Clause is real.

Children are given gifts that come completely unconditionally.

They do not even see the real Santa when he comes. They are experiencing the ultimate generosity which is anonymous and expects nothing in return.

That sort of generosity is real.

If anyone doubts it, they should have visited one of the private homes festooned with Christmas lights, elaborate displays and mobile attractions, and open to the public in the evenings over the past few weeks.

Goodness only knows - for goodness it is - how much these people have spent to provide these treats, and goodness knows why they do it.

It is certainly not for money, they charge nothing for entry, and it is not for applause.

If they can be seen at all when young families are filling their front yard, they remain quietly in the background, visibly enjoying the pleasure they are giving.

Theirs is just one expression of the true spirit of Christmas.

The Auckland City Mission and the volunteers who will help it serve Christmas dinner to the poor tomorrow, are another.

The Herald has been publishing stories from those lining up at the mission for food hampers this week. Some of their stories begged judgmental questions that are not in the true spirit of generosity.

We wish the less well-off - as we wish all our readers - a kind, a safe and happy Christmas.