The internet is in an uproar over the Scrooge-like attitudes of those who are missing that extra bit of Christmas joy this season. Recently a young boy went to visit Santa at a local mall. At the top of his Christmas list? A Nerf gun. He eagerly requested it, and immediately the mall worker said, “No, no guns.”
When the mom clarified that her son meant a toy Nerf gun, the “woke” Santa insisted, “No, not even Nerf guns.” Next, Santa told the boy, “If your dad wants to get it for you, that’s fine, but I can’t bring it to you.” He asked what else the boy might like, adding, “There’s lots of other toys.”
The joyful Christmas music in the background of videos bystanders took during the exchange could not hide the sobs wracking the little one.
Several Minnesota residents’ Christmas joy was also dampened when they received anonymous letters detailing the offensive nature of their Christmas light displays.
The letter states, “I couldn’t help but notice your Christmas light display. During these unprecedented times, we have all experienced challenges which casual words just don’t describe what we’re feeling. The idea of twinkling, colorful lights are a reminder of divisions that continue to run through our society, a reminder of systemic biases against our neighbors who don’t celebrate Christmas or who can’t afford to put up lights of their own.”
Kim Hunt, a nurse in a COVID-19 unit at a local St. Anthony hospital, was only the first target of this joyless Grinch. After she shared her sad story on social media, several other neighbors came forward to say they had also received the same typed letter.
In both instances, the online community was both supportive of the afflicted families and righteously indignant.
In fact, after their undeniably unpleasant experience with the mall Santa, Sabella DeCarlo shared the generosity of many who “offered to send Michael a nerf gun,” she says in her updated Facebook post. The mother hopes to turn this unfortunate incident for not only Michael but all who have followed their story into one of hope and generosity. She said, “If you are still feeling generous please send a toy to Toys For Tots or another charity of your choice for a child who really needs some magic this season.”
Her post concludes with the assurance, “Harlem Irving Plaza has reached out to me to make it right. We really appreciate their quick response and kindness. Merry Christmas everyone!”
Likewise, internet supporters called for the Minnesotans to ensure their Christmas joy is spread even further.
“To the person who received this nastygram. Reach out to me in a private message and I will add more light to your house at no extra charge. Merry Christmas!”
Another Twitter user concurred: “Saying that others may not be able to afford lights is as ridiculous as saying “your house offends the homeless” I love seeing Christmas lights. That I can enjoy the displays while not having to make any effort myself makes me even happier.”
And again: “Add more lights please and make a sign that you’re doing this for the people who can’t afford the lights and those who do celebrate Christmas.”
The online community rallying around these two families is enough evidence to show that even though the world is full of the Scrooges and Grinches, there are still generous people who will help you spread Christmas joy.