Dear Santa - I’ll admit. I am not always the best version of me. There are moments from the last year that I will honestly tell you I am ashamed of the way I behaved. I allowed my humanness to take over and let emotions control the words that came out of my mouth or typed as a rapid response to an email that didn't set right with me. Yet, I enjoy writing to you every year, Santa, because it helps me reflect. The year of 2014 has been one of a lot of personal growth. A lot of wind has returned to my sails and my confidence continues to move in the right direction. I’m not as reluctant to step outside my comfort zones and sometimes I even welcome the challenge.

So, why do I write to you every year, Santa?

I have written to you, many times over the years, starting in 2006 when I was wondering why so many people put all their faith and expectations into false hope. In 2008, I wanted to know what I could do for you. In 2009, I had reached rock bottom in the midst of a dismal personal depression storm. All I wanted at that time was to not lose it all. By 2010, my life was moving upright again. Yet, I wondered if I was personally doing enough for others. So then comes 2012, Santa. I asked for help in receiving three gifts. They were A Clear Purpose for Living, Hope that Failures are Forgiven, and assurance that Christ Will Help. And that brings to the present day.

Here’s this year’s wishlist, Santa

In Christ, I know all things are possible. And Santa, as my youngest daughter is fond of telling folks, you are not real. But that does not make my wish list any less real. I write you simply to get those desires out there not just for others to see, but so I can hold myself personally accountable. My life has been blessed beyond much of what I realistically thought it ever would. I thank God for that daily. And I continue to seek His favor in all things, whether travel mercies, safety from random violence, good health, career success and even in acts of dreaming. It has taken time, but I feel like I have genuine purpose for living, I know that no failure is impossible to overcome and that we can in fact learn from them. Christ has done more than help, He has guided my every way. My 2012 wishes have been provided for mightily. This year, my 2014 wish list to Santa, I ask for the very thing I wrote at the start of this letter.

I want to be the best version of me I can possibly be. (Others may click here to tweet it, too).

Keep me focused on the light instead of shoveling darkness from my sight. Teach me to love as Christ so loved and lead me to lead others to realize their better lives. Peace, Love and Bacon Grease, - Chad

WHAT ABOUT YOU? What are you asking Santa for this year? Comment here or post your letter to Santa on your own blog and link it in the comments. Also share it on Twitter at #DearSanta