Caleb Sigmon is an illusionist and storyteller based in North Carolina for most of the year. But 'tis the season for him to put on his red Santa suit and adopt the persona of Santa Claus.
This year, Caleb is working with DreamWorks in what he calls an "immersive theatrical experience where families meet Santa Claus."
He said on Facebook: "As always, I'll be sharing great moments and photos along the journey as I continue my series of 'Stories From The Big Chair' with you all!"
The stories Caleb shares are mostly adorable and spread some much-needed Christmas spirit (and also include some plain cute interactions between kids and Santa).
However, Caleb told one story recently that was a little bit different and particularly moving. The experience will no doubt stay with Caleb for quite some time.
Caleb wrote:
A man walked in today holding something in his arms. “I have a request,” he said, turning around this picture frame. He took a moment. “My son passed away last year.” He choked up and couldn’t finish his sentence. The entire photo set was silent. I said, “Absolutely.”
Without anyone saying anything, he handed me the frame and I placed it on my knee. In the photo, I could see on the little boy’s armband that his first name was Hayden. I didn’t ask any questions, but I am guessing that this is his first photo with Santa. The camera snap was the only sound I could hear through the entire mall. Normally, I hear all kinds of music and sounds, but it was absolutely silent.
After a handful of clicks, we walked over to the screen and he pointed, saying, “That’s the one.” The girl working at the computer printed him out a full photo package and he pulled out his wallet, saying that this was going to be a gift for his wife.
We gave him the printed package, telling him that it was a gift and that we would be praying for his family this Christmas. He pulled my hand and pulled me in and hugged me, then turned around and left. As he walked out, we all had tears in our eyes.
I’m sharing this to remind us all that Christmastime is unbelievably hard for some families. Pray for the brokenhearted. Smile at people. Just be kind. Love one another.
Caleb may not be the real Santa, but he certainly is doing what he can to preserve the spirit of Christmas and make a difference in the lives of the people he meets while in costume.
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