Real Life Real Faith Wisdom for Everyday Life November/December Issue | Page 18

COMMUNITY
RESIDENTS
LEARN
ABOUT THE
SPIRIT O
GIVING

gift of his mayoral title. In a
letter to the town's newspaper,
Thomas wrote, "In the coming
year, a different citizen in our
community will be chosen to be
'honorary mayor' each day. If
you want to be 'mayor for a
day,' send an email to me and
let me know your reason."

Tim enjoyed portraying Santa
Claus at shopping centers, so
he arranged with the managers
of the town's two strip malls to
appear as Santa. Tim owned
several successful businesses,
so he purchased dozens of
gifts, which he gave to
shoppers.

"As long as I'm alive, there will
always be a Santa," Tim told
Tamara, his wife.

"And as long as I'm alive, there
will always be a Mrs. Santa,
because I am sharing you with

GREG MILLER

the world," Tamara smiled.
"That's my annual global
Christmas gift."

The small community was filled with the spirit of
Christmas.

Tammi, whom God had blessed
with a desire and ability to
produce beautiful creations

As they walked to school, children filled the air with
Christmas carols. Their voices vibrated with
happiness. In just a few short days, schools would
close for their Christmas break. Even the community's
adults were ready to be blessed with gifts.

As anxious as they were to receive gifts, residents
were just as willing to bless others with their heartfelt
generosity.

with her hands, made toys for
all the youngsters in the town's
orphanage. "Trains for boys and
dolls for girls that's my motto,"
she said.

Although most of the town's
residents possessed the
Christmas spirit, a few people
were only interested in the

Thomas, the town's manager, decided to share the

gifts they would receive. "All I