sandra carrington-smith: blog 
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a project for the holidays
Published Dec. 2, 2008
Do you remember the snow monster in Christmas movies – the one that Santa was able to change from bad to good with a gift? I watched that movie last night with my children, and it made me think of how easy it is to reach out to others.
Among the people we know, there is always at least one snow monster. I, for one, have met a few; they put on a very strong front to intimidate others because they have been previously hurt, and feel the need to wear a spiked armor for protection. Deep down, they are sensitive and caring, vulnerable and afraid, but on the surface they come through as an ice storm, ready to attack the opponent with icy daggers.
In the movie, when Santa gives him the gift, the snow monster is surprised, and is unsure of what he should do. All he’s ever received, up to this point, are fear and anger – the only possible responses to his threatening, cold and heartless behavior. Suddenly, despite his tough appearance, someone is offering him a gift. The monster is at a loss; his chest deflates, his eyes open wider, and he humbly asks Santa what he should do from then on, since he has never learned to be good. His rough, scary appearance is gone, and is replaced by a gentle demeanor.
So, should we follow Santa’s example and give gifts to mean people? Maybe we should. They can be material gifts - if one feels so inclined - but what will truly “thaw” the snow monsters are things money can’t buy: a hug, a kind word, a bit of human warmth. They expect swords and arrows; an offer of unconditional love will slice through the rough peel and reach the soft core.
The response is quite amazing. At first, they might even get uglier, as the sweet words will burn a hole in the icy crust and they will feel suddenly vulnerable; they may remain speechless, as they have never prepared answers for a positive exchange. But at that point, the magic has begun; that one single, tiny seed of love will burrow in their hearts and grow, and may be the catalyst for incredible changes ahead.
We can make this a project for the holidays – that of thawing as many snow monsters as we can, and give them the chance to experience a Christmas miracle, maybe for the first time in their lives.
And as my grandmother once said: “The mightier and uglier they appear, the more they need to be loved, as everything can be neutralized by its opposite. If you give out gifts, would you not want to hand them out to the real needy? Love is no different.”
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What that means, I have no idea, but many can be set upon it.
GOLO member since January 20, 2008
December 2, 2008 10:59 p.m.
December 2, 2008 3:06 p.m.
Hey Kevin and Lightfoot :)
GOLO member since August 28, 2008
December 2, 2008 1:59 p.m.
Now Lightfoot some people are evil but they have children too some good are in them somewhere. You just have to be patient, children will eventually see the evil on their own or the good will come out. One or the other will happen - you just have to be patient. :)
December 2, 2008 12:54 p.m.
December 2, 2008 12:35 p.m.
During a trip to Romania a few years back we visited one of the then awful state orphanages. One of the leaders at the orphanage was a woman who quite honestly had one of the ugliest demeanors I have ever encountered. She made it obvious she didn't want us there and made every effort to derail our efforts to help the kids. Someone decided one day to bring her flowers. At first she acted confused as if she wasn't sure why someone would give her flowers. I wouldn't say she turned nice but she definitely softened after that.
Sometimes it works, but sometimes it doesn't.
GOLO member since October 4, 2007
December 2, 2008 11:53 a.m.
GOLO member since August 16, 2007
December 2, 2008 8:37 a.m.
GOLO member since July 20, 2007
December 2, 2008 8:13 a.m.
GOLO member since August 28, 2008
December 2, 2008 8:07 a.m.
GOLO member since August 28, 2008
December 2, 2008 7:18 a.m.
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