Each year at Christmas, laughter, joy and even tears are brought upon by the gift-giving game of Secret Santa. Also known as gifts given secretly and anonymously to a person in a similar class, office or club, Secret Santa can be fun for everyone.

“You have to be a ninja”, “It’s a secret!”, “I love making people smile”, are a few of the many thoughts and feelings about it. You have two choices, undoubtedly ridiculous and hilarious gifts, or gifts wrapped up in sentiment and emotion.  

I remember my first year of Secret Santa, I had no idea in all of the North Pole what I was supposed to do! Go out and buy a present for someone who does not even know I exist? Ridiculous! That is not what I would call fun. Nonetheless I am a good Santa so I participated, but I never really expected to have the experience that I did that year.

We had two days filled with lovely gifts and laughter. What made it the most memorable to me is when everyone opened their gifts with such a bright smiles, wide eyes and the wonder of the mystery of who had them. To me, it is not just about receiving gifts. That moment of surprise and happiness when they open their gift brings me so much joy. That is what keeps me participating every year.

You may receive a not-so-appealing gift such as body spray, but that is not what it is all about. Secret Santa is supposed to be about spreading humor and love and Christmas cheer. It is supposed to be fun! I love being that person. It is what calls me back year to year. Making someone else’s whole day by just a small, thoughtful gift; or, a totally hilarious ones, which ever you may.

That is why I play a part in Secret Santa and why I believe everyone of all ages should participate in the experience.