Yes, Molly
by Rob Morris
Just as Nerys had shown her, Molly prayed at the Shrine. Only later would her parents explain about different faiths and beliefs.
"A bunch of kids said that there is no Santa Claus. I guess that's okay. But-could you maybe make it so there is one?"
Her answer was a small, playful light that returned to the wormhole very quickly.
"You mean you will? But how?"
How indeed.
4TH CENTURY ASIA MINOR, EARTH
The old bishop lay dying without an ounce of regret. His had been a life true to his beliefs, especially philanthropy, those acts of human charity that were a mere reflection of that charity held by the divine.
By his side stood a matron of a wealthy and respected House known for its devoutness.
"So many years ago. My sisters and I were on the verge of destitution. Rather than lose our home-we were to sell ourselves, to faithless men on The Feast Of Nativity itself. Once marked as such creatures, we would have been little better than slaves, for all our lives. So on Nativity Eve, we made up our finery for the next day, and left our stocking-feet to dry by the fireplace. When the day of our ruin came, imagine our shock to find enough money in those stockings to see us through til our family came for us the next month. The others didn't see, but I did. It was you snuck in and gave us that money. All I have I owe to you. Your place in Heaven is already made."
Unable to watch his final passing, the matron left. But others had plans for the Old Bishop.
Without warning, he found himself in a white void. Surrounding him were The Patriachs Of Rome, Constantinople, and Alexandria.
"You Are The Giver."
"You Are The Nicholas."
"You Are The Santa."
"You Shall Always Be So."
CARDASSIA, 2378
Garak saw the children running about the streets unusually happy. In their hands were tough, durable toys carved finely from quality wood.
"No...it can't be."
Coming home to find a package addressed to him, he found inside an exquisite Kelioum Puzzle, such as he had desperately wanted as a child, but had never told anyone about. Playing with it, he half-cracked a smile.
"You know, it's a pity that I've reformed. I could really use the coal."