Santa’s on Vacation – It’s Your Turn to Step In this Christmas

This Christmas, Santa is packing his bags and heading for a much-needed vacation. But wait—don’t panic! The world won’t be left without joy because you are now the bearer of happiness. Yes, you! It’s your turn to sprinkle love, kindness, and warmth across the society. Let’s not just admire the red suit; let’s step into it!

Science tells us that happiness is contagious. According to studies on the neuroscience of happiness, acts of kindness not only bring joy to others but also trigger pleasure centers in your brain. Helping someone lights up the same part of your brain as when you enjoy a favorite meal or hear a song you love. It’s a ripple effect: one act of kindness leads to another.

Somewhere in the snowy Alps, Santa is sipping hot cocoa, enjoying some much-deserved rest. The big question is: who will take over his job.

That’s where you come in.

Imagine waking up to a world where happiness depends on your actions. It’s not about flying reindeer or chimney acrobatics—it’s about being the spark that ignites joy. This year, Santa has left the job to all of us. And while it may sound overwhelming, science says it’s totally doable.

Research shows that spreading happiness is as beneficial to you as it is to others. The simple act of giving—whether it’s a kind word, a warm meal, or even a smile—releases feel-good chemicals in your brain. It’s like giving yourself a gift every time you help someone else.

Take inspiration from Rumi, who said,

“Be a lamp, a lifeboat, a ladder. Help someone’s soul heal. Walk out of your house like a shepherd.”

This Christmas, be the light someone needs.

Help a neighbor. Volunteer at a shelter. Donate to a cause close to your heart. You don’t need a sleigh or a red suit—just a kind heart and a willingness to act. Remember, happiness grows when shared.

So, You are going to  be Santa this year? Smile at a stranger, share your blessings, and let your faith—whether in God, Allah, Ĕlōah, or any name you call the Divine—guide you. Rumi once said, “Be like a tree, and let the dead leaves drop.” In other words, let go of selfishness and open your heart.

Let’s make this season more than gifts and glitter. Visit the lonely, feed the hungry, or simply listen to someone who needs it. No deed is too small. This is your chance to be the hands that spread joy and the heart that reminds people of the goodness in the world.

During the Christmas holidays, you can consider helping people like: local families struggling financially, homeless individuals, senior citizens living alone, children in need, military personnel stationed away from home, first responders, or anyone in your community who might be feeling lonely or isolated by offering practical assistance like food donations, gifts, volunteering your time, or simply reaching out with a kind gesture. 

Specific ways to help:

• Adopt a family:Contact a local charity or community center to “adopt” a family in need and provide them with Christmas gifts and food. 
• Donate to food banks:Contribute non-perishable food items to local food banks to help families struggling with food insecurity. 
• Volunteer at a shelter:Offer your time at a homeless shelter to serve meals, sort donations, or provide companionship. 
• Send care packages to troops:Reach out to military personnel stationed overseas with care packages filled with holiday treats and personal items. 
• Visit senior centers:Spend time with elderly residents who might be lonely during the holidays, bringing small gifts or simply engaging in conversation. 
• Organize a toy drive:Collect new or gently used toys for children in need. 
• Support local charities:Donate to local charities that provide holiday assistance to those in need. 
• Check in on neighbors:Reach out to elderly or isolated neighbors to offer support and companionship. 
• Bake cookies for others:Make a batch of cookies and share them with your community, including neighbors, coworkers, or local organizations.