Landon and his family was visiting Santa at the RiverTown Crossings mall in Michigan when the little six-year-old approached the Big Man with a very important question.
Landon’s Secret
After his family photo was complete, Landon ran back up to Santa. His arms were twitching in anticipation and pure adrenaline. He was going to ask something that made him very nervous.
“Will my autism put me on the naughty list?”
Landon was concerned that his mental condition was going to rub Santa and the elves the wrong way, but he couldn’t have been more wrong!
Exactly What He Needed To Hear
Without hesitation, Santa responded with an amazing answer, WOOD-TV reported.
“You know I love you and the reindeer love you and it’s OK. You’re a good boy. You’re a good boy, you know?”
The nervous energy left Landon immediately and his mom Naomi sat there and watched in amazement as Santa calmed her son. She shared that Santa flawlessly explained what she’s been trying to teach her son since he was born – he is not any better or worse than a person simply due to his mental condition. He is a good person and Santa made that clear. With only five words Santa made everything right again: “It’s OK to be you!”
Love And Acceptance
The words seemed to really resonate with Landon. He and Santa spent another five minutes talking about Landon’s interests and the joyous Christmas season.
Santa gave him undivided attention and answered all of the little one’s questions with his signature jolly demeanor.
Santa Says “Be Yourself”
Naomi was thrilled that her son was able to absorb Santa’s lesson.
“Here was Landon, sitting with Santa and being told that it was ok to be himself. Mommy tells him all the time that he’s special and I love him the way he was made, but it’s always nice to hear it from others.”
The reassurance from such an important person warmed their hearts and gave Landon the boost of confidence he was searching for.
A Different List
This year Santa made it onto one very special list, at least in the eyes of Naomi and her incredible son.
“We have met a lot of amazing people in our Autism journey, but this one made the top of the list.”
His compassion was unmatched, and his willingness to spend a little extra time with Landon showed that he really did care about the precious little boy.
Christmas Kindness
Watch Landon’s story here – but be warned, you’re going to need a box of tissues by your side! This sweet boy and his experience with Santa will definitely make you tear up.
Santa’s Got It Right
Landon will enjoy his Christmas knowing that he’s cherished by not only Santa, but Mrs. Claus, the elves and reindeer as well – all thanks to a very special white-bearded man!
Just because someone thinks, looks, acts or talks differently than us does not mean that they are bad people, and Santa helped Landon understand that. This holiday season take time to give a few extra hugs to those who truly need it!