A mother has sparked a divisive debate as she revealed she refuses to lie to her children about Santa or give them any Christmas presents.
The young woman in question asked columnist and best-selling author Jane Green for advice after her own family accused her of being “evil” for not putting up with the Christmas tradition involving Santa and gifting.
“Whenever this time of year rolls around I am filled with a sense of dread. Not because I hate the holidays, but because I know that I’m going to end up facing awful judgment and criticism from those around me over how I treat my children during the festive season,” she explained.
“I’ve never let my kids buy into the whole lie about Santa – I think it’s stupid. Ever since they were old enough to understand what Santa was, I’ve told them he’s not a real man, that he’s a symbol of Christmas for some people.”
Defending her decision, the fuming mom went on to say she didn’t think it was okay to create “some silly fantasy” that would eventually, inevitably, “shatter” kids and leave them heartbroken.
She also said she didn’t want her kids to think that Christmas revolves around presents, whereas she instead encourages them to do acts of service and spread joy to others.
“I take any money that I save on gifts and so on and put it into a college fund for them. Which seems like a far better use of my earnings than frivolous gifts!” the mother added.
“Yet other people seem to find this stance impossible to understand. I’ve been called a ‘Scrooge’, told that I’m ‘evil’, and even my own family members have accused me of ‘bullying’ and ‘abusing’ my children by ‘banning’ them from having a real Christmas.”
After asking for advice, Jane Green responded by agreeing it was hard raising children in today’s world due to all the judgment flying around. Jane also said there was nothing wrong with the mom’s decision to ban Santa and Christmas gifts even though she was a big Christmas fan.
“I would completely ignore what other people are saying, and continue to celebrate in the way that’s right for your family,” the author wrote.
“If extended family members continue to make derisive comments, ask them not to speak to you like that, or you/they will have to leave. And then, hold firm on that. No one needs to be bullied by anyone for choosing a different route, least of all family.”
What are your thoughts on this matter? Let us know in the comments and don’t forget to SHARE this post with your family and friends. For more news and stories, follow us on Facebook!