Miracle on 34th Street – or Your Street

Did you watch it again? Such a great movie.

In “Miracle on 34th Street,” Kris Kringle, a department store Santa at Macy’s, creates a huge controversy when he tells a mother that she can buy the skates her child wants for Christmas at Gimbels, Macy’s number one competitor.

“Miracle on 34th Street” is, among other things, the story of how one person helped people live by their deepest values in the most commercial season of the year.

The department store Santa had been told to direct customers to buy Macy’s products. When the Macy’s higher–ups hear that their Santa is sending people to Gimbels, they are not pleased. Later, the press picks up the story with the message that Macy’s is exhibiting the Christmas spirit, and Gimbels gets into the act, – sending people to Macy’s when Macy’s can better meet their customers’ needs. The generosity spreads, with the outcome that the impossible happens: Mr. Macy ends up shaking hands with Mr. Gimbel.

No matter what business you’re in, maybe you’re not even in any business, may the spirit and intent of the Macy’s Santa be ours – to offer our help to others when they need it even if we don’t receive the immediate benefit personally.

In 2010, give. Give because the Universe is watching. Give because it’s always better than being in need. Give because you want to. Give because you can.

You can never outgive God, no matter whom you believe him/her to be. Go ahead, try. And, next time you have the chance, gather your loved ones around and watch “Miracle on 34th Street”.

Merry Christmas, everyone.