* the belief in santa claus

while the belief in santa claus brings joy to some, i see it as (potentially) problematic.

• it is based upon bad evidence.
• it is a belief that often muddies the Spirit of Santa (Saint Claus).
• giving
• joy
• connection
• celebration
• delivery
• honor (especially, of children)

the santa clause/belief (in my opinion) is imposed upon young minds that could learn some bad lessons (e.g.):

• those who i trust most will lie to my face. i know that:
• reindeer don't fly.
• a white-bearded man in the sky can't deliver presents to every child on earth in a single night.
• etc. 
• mommy won't punish me for doing wrong, but that santa guy will.
• we (once we learn the truth) should join the liars and confer the myth of santa onto the next batch of youngins. 

disclaimer: i've never been a parent. understandably, a parent must feel pressured (in regard to this issue). in addition, joy swirls around Christ-mas season, complete with positive associations & feelings, rituals, songs & memories. 

i feel it myself.

i'm not sure what i'd do if i was a parent. i imagine/hope that i would teach my children about the Spirit of Santa, and side-step the potential challenges associated with those little white-bearded lies.