“The People’s Friend” published “A Kiss From Santa”, a short story by Evelyn, in their 2019 Annual.
The story involved a Christmas get-together from different families living in a tenement building; the gathering was organised by the self-proclaimed matriarch of the community, Mrs. Petrie, and although this was the first time such an event had taken place and participants had mixed feelings about the difference it brought to their routine, it was a great success.
Added to the story was the imminent break-up of young Tricia and Douglas Jardine, who had with them their daughter Donna who was experiencing her first ever Christmas.
In 2020, many families and communities have had to deal with changes and disruptions in their lives, particularly concerning travelling and congregating together. We are probably not likely to take for granted opportunities to meet and see each other again after the disruption of this year. Although published recently, “A Kiss From Santa” seems to hark back to a time long ago when people were able to meet freely without health fears!
You will be glad to know that in the story, Tricia and Douglas manage to get back together. This is due to Douglas disguising himself as Santa Claus and getting to kiss his daughter, enabling his wife Tricia to see that they did indeed need to stay together as a family.
The short story ends by considering the young couple reconciling their differences and the gathering of a community in celebration, bringing food and joy to each other.
“Although the years pass, the important things never change. The same things can happen in Bethlehem and in an ordinary Scottish tenement. And sometimes, they do.”
And whatever this year has brought, next year will be different; but the important things will not change. We hope that you and your families have the best possible Christmas season and very best wishes for 2021.
Simon & Evelyn Hood