I grew up believing in Santa Claus, and we still treat our house

Host: The café was filled with the soft glow of dimmed lights, casting warm reflections across the wooden tables. Outside, the world had slowed under a blanket of evening rain. The gentle sound of raindrops tapping on the windows added to the cozy, intimate atmosphere inside. Jack and Jeeny sat across from each other, their drinks resting between them as their conversation began to take shape.

Jeeny, her fingers wrapped around her cup, glanced over at Jack, her voice thoughtful but light.

Jeeny: “I came across something from Mary Steenburgen today. She said, ‘I grew up believing in Santa Claus, and we still treat our house at Christmas with a huge reverence for that belief—even though our children are 19 through 23.’ What do you think about that?”

Jack: He smiled, clearly intrigued by the sentiment. “I like that. It’s interesting how, even as we grow older, some of the traditions and beliefs we had as children stay with us. There’s a kind of magic in holding onto those traditions, even when we’re no longer kids. It’s almost like a way of keeping the wonder alive in a world that can get pretty practical and serious.”

Host: The café had become quieter now, the distant sound of rain the only background to their thoughts. Jeeny’s voice, steady but warm, continued.

Jeeny: “Exactly. There’s something beautiful about reverence—about holding onto the feeling of something, even when we know the truth. It’s about maintaining that sense of wonder and gratitude, especially during the holidays. For Mary Steenburgen, it sounds like the tradition of Santa Claus isn’t just about a belief in a jolly man in a red suit, but about keeping a part of childhood alive, a sense of magic that transcends age.”

Jack: “I get that. It’s like, even as we get older and start to see things differently, we don’t have to completely lose that sense of awe. It’s comforting to hold onto something from the past, something that reminds us of the simpler times, the times when things weren’t so complicated. Even with grown kids, they still make room for that magic.”

Jeeny: “Exactly. It’s the spirit of connection that those traditions foster. Santa Claus isn’t just about the presents or the myth; it’s about the shared experience, the way it brings people together, creates memories, and keeps those warm feelings alive. It’s not just for the kids—it’s for everyone who’s involved, whether they believe or not. It’s a reminder of the joy and wonder that are still possible, even in adulthood.”

Host: The conversation seemed to flow naturally, as if the words were simply an extension of the warmth between them. The rain outside had grown softer, like it was in sync with their calm reflections. Jack, usually focused on the pragmatic side of things, now seemed to appreciate the deeper meaning in Jeeny’s words.

Jack: “I guess we all need that reminder, don’t we? That there’s more to life than just the day-to-day. That we can still hold onto the things that bring us joy, even if they seem small or childish. It’s about keeping the magic alive, whether through traditions like Santa or just by being present with the people we love.”

Jeeny: “Yes. It’s about embracing the belief in things beyond what we can see or touch. That’s what makes the holidays—and life in general—feel a little more special. The magic isn’t just in the story of Santa, it’s in the spirit of belief, the celebration of family, and the ability to hold onto something that brings joy, no matter how old we are.”

Host: The café felt quieter now, the world outside seemed far away, and inside, the quiet warmth of their conversation lingered. In that moment, Jack and Jeeny realized that reverence for belief, no matter how old or practical life gets, was a way of preserving the magic—a way of keeping joy alive through the simple, shared traditions that bound people together, year after year.