25 Days of Rudolph

Day 2: Rudolph the Symbol of Christmas

Once upon a snowy evening in the enchanting North Pole, at a point in time between that very first foggy Christmas Eve and the present date you find yourself in as you read this story, the familiar melodies of Christmas carols filled the air as Santa Claus paced back and forth in his cozy study. A gleam of anticipation danced in his eyes, for he had a special conversation awaiting him—one that he had been meaning to have for quite some time. His heart swelled with admiration and gratitude for a certain reindeer who had captured the world's imagination.

Rudolph, the red-nosed reindeer, stood patiently before Santa, his majestic presence casting a warm glow in the room. Santa began their conversation with a gentle smile, his voice filled with genuine concern.

"Rudolph, my dear friend, how do you feel?" Santa asked, his eyes peering deeply into Rudolph's own, filled with wisdom and kindness.

Rudolph, taken aback by the question, paused for a moment before responding. "Santa, I feel honored to serve as the leader of your sleigh team, and grateful for the joy we bring to children around the world," he replied, his voice filled with sincerity.

Santa nodded, his gaze moving from Rudolph's crimson nose to his furrowed brow. "Indeed, Rudolph. It has been quite a few years since you first led the team, guiding us through the darkest of nights. And yet, I cannot help but notice something remarkable," Santa said, his voice tinged with awe.

Rudolph's eyes widened in surprise. "What is it, Santa?" he asked, genuinely perplexed.

Santa leaned forward, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "Rudolph, my friend, in all these years, not a single gray hair adorns either you or Clarice," Santa revealed, a touch of amusement in his voice.

Rudolph stood there dumbstruck, unable to comprehend the implications of Santa's observation. "I... I never noticed," he stammered, his voice filled with disbelief. "And no one else ever mentioned it."

A warm chuckle escaped Santa's lips as he placed a reassuring hand on Rudolph's shoulder. "Rudolph, my dear, it is a testament to the extraordinary nature of who you are. You have become more than a reindeer who guides my sleigh. You have become a symbol—a shining symbol of hope, love, and the magic of Christmas."

Rudolph's eyes widened in astonishment as the weight of Santa's words settled upon him. He had become an enduring symbol, recognized and adored around the world, bringing joy to countless children.

Santa continued, his voice filled with conviction. "Just as Mrs. Claus, the other eight main reindeer, and I are immortalized by the spirit of Christmas, so too shall you and Clarice live forever. You, Rudolph, have earned the blessing of eternal joy and happiness, forever cherished as a beacon of light."

Rudolph's heart swelled with a mix of awe, amazement, and pure elation at the prospect of continuing to bring joy and happiness to the world for eternity. Yet, his humble nature led him to say, "But Santa. . . am I really worthy of that? I mean, do you really think I'm as great as you or the other reindeer?"

Santa laughed heartily, his jolly laughter echoing through the room. "Oh, Rudolph, my dear friend, do you not see? Throughout your life, you have endured hardships and emerged with kindness and compassion intact. You not only saved Christmas but also saved the Misfit Toys, showing them the love and acceptance that they deserved."

Santa reached into his coat pocket, producing a folded letter, and with a twinkle in his eye, he said, "And, you've touched many a soul throughout this world. Just listen." Santa then began to read:

Dear Rudolph,

Hey there! I'm Jasper, and I just had to write you this letter because you're super awesome! I'm your absolute biggest fan ever!

Guess what? I've got red hair, just like your nose! Sometimes kids at school tease me about it, and it used to make me feel kinda sad. But then, I heard all about you and everything changed!

The story about you and your nose taught me that being different is actually super cool and that I can be proud of being different, even when some kids try to be not-so-nice. And you proved that anyone can change the world with a bit of kindness.

Whenever I hear "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," I can't help but smile. It reminds me that there are lots of people who get what it's like to be a bit different.

Thanks a bazillion, Rudolph, for being my hero. Your story makes me feel like a superstar, and it gives me this hope that one day I can help others feel good the same way you did.

Your biggest fan,

Jasper

Tears glistened in Rudolph's eyes as he listened to the heartfelt words of the young boy. The weight of his responsibility as a symbol of Christmas took on a deeper meaning, knowing the impact it had on individuals like Jasper.

Determined to honor this incredible role bestowed upon him, Rudolph clasped Santa's hand. "Santa, I promise you, I will live up to this gift and carry the spirit of Christmas with me always. I will continue to spread love, acceptance, and joy to every corner of the world."

Santa beamed with pride, his belief in Rudolph unyielding. "I have complete confidence in you, Rudolph," he declared, his voice filled with warmth. "Go now, share this wonderful news with Clarice, and let the eternal journey of spreading Christmas joy begin."

With renewed purpose and a heart filled with gratitude, Rudolph turned to leave, but before he did, he turned back to Santa with a humble request. "Santa, if it's not too much to ask, may I have Jasper's letter? It will serve as a constant reminder of the impact we have on those who need it the most."

Santa smiled, handing over the letter to Rudolph. "Of course, my dear friend. Jasper's words hold the magic of belief and the power of your story. Keep it close to your heart, and let it inspire you on this incredible journey."

And so, with the letter in hoof, Rudolph left Santa's study, his heart brimming with joy, ready to share the extraordinary news with Clarice. Together, they would embark on a timeless mission, spreading love, acceptance, and the enduring spirit of Christmas to all who needed it, for they were now forever bound to the legacy of Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the eight other main reindeer—a symbol of hope and joy that would shine bright for eternity.

Note: I think it's safe to say that Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer has become ingrained within Christmas mythology and iconography. An overwhelming majority of the people who celebrate Christmas and play along with the fun fantastical side of it just accept that Rudolph leads the sleigh team. Majority rules: there are NINE reindeer pulling the sleigh. Hopefully when Rudolph finally enters public domain we'll be able to see him in more Christmas movies and specials. "Rise of the Guardians" would have been a perfect film if Rudolph was there to team up with Jack.