Santa’s Message to the Naughty List
I’m upset. The list in front of me isn’t the Nice List that I’ve always loved to review. This list shows the kids who used to be on the Nice List but, because of their choices, are now on the Naughty List. The elves have dubbed it the "Fallen List," and this year it has more names than I care to count.
Among them, Biff and Tony. They’d been on the Nice List for years, but now their behavior has changed everything. They go about their days looking for trouble, raising a bit of hell, as if it’s their job to pick on George and Jimmy.
Then there are the teenage girls, Kim and Karen. They’ve made a game out of tearing others down. They gossip at school and bully online, treating their words like weapons, all to make themselves feel better. This is unacceptable. Find something constructive to do with your time.
And to the girls who joined in to laugh at Carrie—how does it feel to hurt someone’s self-esteem? Is that really the kind of person you want to be?
I shake my head. It’s one thing to bicker, argue, and disagree. But bullying? Intimidating kids half your size? Teaming up against someone who just needs a friend? That’s something I cannot tolerate.
Mrs. Claus has shared stories with me—stories of kids crying themselves to sleep because of bullies. Some of these little ones get hit, kicked, and threatened. Some of them lose their spark because someone decided to make their life miserable. It can really damage how they see themselves and the world. My heart aches for those children, and my anger grows toward those who oppress them.
To the bullies out there... you know who you are. This year, I’m deeply disappointed in you. You used to be on my Nice List, and I always looked forward to delivering your gifts, watching you grow up. But things have changed. I’ve seen how you treat others, and it’s not right. Bullying isn’t just a harmless prank or a bit of fun—it’s cruel, and it can cause lasting harm.
You might think you’re showing strength by picking on others who are different, but what you’re really doing is showing your own insecurities. True strength lies in kindness. It takes courage to be kind, to stand up for others, and to make the world a better place.
Every time you spread hate, you’re chipping away at your own heart, making it colder and harder. I really don’t want that for you. I want you to be the kid I used to root for. Look at yourself in the mirror and ask if this is who you truly want to be.
Bullying is more than just words or actions. It leaves long-term scars. Victims of bullying often suffer from low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. They find it difficult to trust others, to feel safe, or to feel valued. These emotional scars can last a lifetime.
And for bullies, the consequences are also severe. Bullies often struggle with forming healthy relationships and continue their aggressive behavior into adulthood, leading to legal troubles, job instability, and ongoing personal struggles. By bullying others, you’re creating a cycle of negativity that will affect your future.
But there’s hope. Every person has the power to change. Making yourself vulnerable and offering a sincere apology can go a long way toward healing. It shows real courage to admit you were wrong and to work on becoming better.
And to those of you who are still on my Nice List because you’ve stood up to bullies or shown kindness to someone in need—I see you, and I’m proud of you. You’re the reason I look forward to Christmas every year.
Remember, being on the Nice List isn’t about being perfect; it’s about striving to be the best version of yourself, to treat others with kindness and respect. It’s never too late to change and make a positive impact. I hope to see a better version of all of you next year, a version that makes you proud when you look in the mirror.
Sincerely,
Santa Claus
