by Journey, age 8 from Waco, Texas, asks Santa about the ASL sign for him, the Brazos River, and the town’s university.
Dear Santa, my name is Journey, and I am eight years old. I live in Waco, Texas, where my grandma says a whole herd of huge bronze cattle statues stands right along our river downtown.
Dear Journey, a town with cattle statues that grand deserves a very appreciative flyover, your grandma picked a truly striking hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
What is American Sign Language for Santa? My cousin is deaf and wants to sign to you this year.
The sign for me is a cheerful stroking motion along an imaginary long beard, Journey, easy enough to learn with a little practice. Your cousin’s kindness in reaching out that way is really something worth celebrating.
My grandma says Waco sits along the Brazos River. Is that true?
It is true, Journey, the Brazos River flows right through your town, an important part of its history and landscape. I always follow that glimmering path to help find my way to your rooftop.
My grandma says Waco is home to a really large private university. Is that true?
It is true, Journey, a large private university calls your town home, shaping much of its spirit and daily life. That kind of shared community pride is really something worth celebrating, Christmas and every day after.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Journey McAllister
Waco, Texas
P.S. Will you practice the sign for my cousin this year?
Already practiced, Journey, a good greeting deserves proper effort.
