Joan Moser
We spend a lot of time in airports waiting for flights. Like many of you, we enjoy passing time by people watching. We were doing just that in an airport recently when our eyes landed on a most interesting person. He was a jolly looking man, walking our direction, dressed all in red (including red tennis shoes). He had a beautiful white beard (I would swear it was curled with a curling iron it seemed so perfect), little glasses perched on the end of his nose, a twinkle in his eye, and a red backpack with the name "Santa" embroidered on the front. The icing on the cake was the red sweatshirt, which read, "Santa Claus, yes I am on vacation!"
His influence on the crowd was as delightful to watch as he was—smiles, giggles, and children peeking out from behind parent's legs. I finally went up to him and asked if I could take his picture. Not only did I get a couple of great photos, I was able to chat with him and also received a warm hug and a business card! Truly—Santa Claus gave me his business card!
I turned around with a stupid grin on my face holding the card as if it were a million dollar bill. Looking down at his business card, I was delighted to read that the expiration date was "never," his address was, of course,"The North Pole" and yes, he is an official Toy Donor.
I was even more struck by what was written on the back:
I promise to have character worthy of trust.
I will be respectful and responsible, doing what I must
I will always act with fairness; I will show that I care.
I will be a good citizen and always do my share.
Santa takes his job seriously, even on vacation. I knew he had to be tired from traveling. Yet he didn't hesitate to let me take his picture or give me his card. When he found out I was a teacher, he thanked me for the work I do on behalf of life's greatest and most precious resource, children.
I have thought about Santa a lot over the past weeks since running into him. I even carry his business card in my wallet. Since my chance meeting with the darling, positive, energetic man in red, I can't help but wonder, "What would I print on the back of my business card? What message do I want representing me and the job I do with 'Life's most precious resource'?"
I now have a little spot in the back of my journal where I am constantly jotting down ideas for the back of my business card. It has been a great exercise. Consider taking part in this activity as a staff, grade-level team or just when you have a moment. "What would you put on the back of your business card?"
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