Moments of humor and confusion

With the dawning of each new holiday season, it always seems that our family experiences moments of fun, frustration, elation, and times when all you can do is crack a smile and hold on for the proverbial ride. This year was no different, although we made a conscious effort to scale back a bit to ensure the girls fully understand that although receiving gifts is pretty cool, the act of giving is the primary focus, considering the ultimate gift we have received. One aspect which always warms my heart is the inclusion of distant family members throughout the season.

Like other years, recently, my wife and I had the opportunity to watch our two granddaughters as their parents traveled to town in search of the perfect Christmas gifts. As I have aged, I have come to the conclusion that having my two girls willing to assist us with the task of babysitting the babies is crucial.

Where I fully admit, my energy level has been lacking recently, Lilli and Riyann pick right up and ensure that the little girls’ excitement and energy is directed in the right direction, leaving the elders to sit back while we watch the chaos unfold before our eyes.

As the one known as “Dad” to some and “Popa” to others, my main purpose in many instances is to sneak around, feeding the kids candy and then watch as the meltdown of the other adults commence because of the explosion of energy derived from Popa’s little surgery gifts.

Ensuring that my duties were fulfilled I strategically dispensed cotton candy and leaned back in my chair to observe. Attempting to divert attention, I quickly decided that I may have possibly overdone the candy dispensing so drastic means had to be implemented to ensure I lived to see another day.

It was then that I loudly asked my eldest granddaughter how she was doing and what she hoped to get from Santa Claus this year. Hearing no response, I turned slightly and re-voiced my question.

It was then that my mother, who was present, described that the girls’ parents choose not to celebrate the holiday with the Santa figure, but rather that he’s not real. As my youngest heard this she sprung into action to safeguard her younger nieces.

The words which flowed from the mouth of my child caused me to literally fall out of my chair. Upon hearing the words from her grandmother, Riyann quickly began walking towards her, shielding the younger child, saying “What are you thinking Nene?”

Feeling that the scolding wasn’t enough, she added, “You can’t tell a little child that.” Stunned, both grandma and I could muster little more than shocked smile as we looked at each other. After a short time of explaining, Riyann came to understood, slightly, what Nene was saying and as she walked away simply repeated, “It’s just not right.”

As the sugar rush subsided that day, parents returned, and the grandchildren headed back home excited for the opportunity to hang out a bit with family. No further mentions of Santa were heard, out of respect, but Riyann continued displaying her dismay over Nene’s words, with the occasional head shake and expressions of disgust.

As the day drew to an end, I was reminded of the preciousness of life and how, at times, we must boldly come to the defense of our fellow family members.

Understanding that regardless of the outcomes, we must shield one another from the damaging words and events which strive to steal our joy. I for one find solace in the season and the opportunities to gather together. Be on the look out my friends, have a bit of fun, but remain on guard to protect those we love.

Richard J. Stephens lives in Carter County and is the father of three little ladies ranging in age from nine to 29. His experiences being a single parent, co-parent, and leader, provide a unique perspective to a wide array of issues families face.