Dear Santa, Christmas is a lot

Dear Santa,

I’m not really looking for anything extravagant. What I really want is a bit of calm between all the demands, a moment to breathe without feeling like I’m always behind.

If you have any extra patience, I could really use it. The kind that helps in busy stores, during long talks, and when I notice I’ve taken on too much.

A Labubu would be nice for a dopamine hit and a distraction from the hustle and bustle.

A full night of restful sleep would also be a true gift. Not just a few hours, but the kind that helps me feel whole again.

And if it’s not too much, could you quiet those expectations, the ones that say Christmas has to be magical, meaningful, and perfect, or else it doesn’t count?

I’m doing my best. I’m baking, showing up, meeting deadlines, picking out gifts, and trying to stay present even when my mind races ahead. A KitchenAid stand mixer would really help with my sudden surge in Christmas cookie output.

I’m tired and I feel like my Christmas is falling apart at the seams. But I’m not alone in how I feel.

The first Christmas wasn’t perfect or peaceful. It was crowded, inconvenient, and happened during a time of exhaustion and uncertainty. But God was still there.

There was no perfect table or matching plans — just a tired family in a borrowed place, and a Savior who came anyway.

Maybe what I need this year isn’t to try harder or even to feel more joy. Maybe I need to remember that Christmas was never about doing everything perfectly. It was about God coming close.

If you could help me remember that, I would really appreciate it.

That’s my prayer this Christmas: Jesus, please give me perspective and peace, and remind me of your presence. When I strive for perfection, remind me that You — not worldly achievements — are truly all I need.

Love, Brie