Read the heartbreaking letter that got Malik Bryant invited to the State of the Union

Thirteen year-old Malik Bryant of Englewood in Chicago wrote a letter to Santa explaining that all he really wanted for Christmas was safety. He's one of 8,500 students who wrote letters to Santa through an organization called Direct-Effect Charities. Someone at the organization liked the letter, brought it to the attention of the White House, got a reply from the President, and now Bryant is going to be one of Michelle Obama's State of the Union guests.

The letter is adorable, but also absolutely heartbreaking — kids should be asking Santa for toys, not basic public safety:

It's not entirely clear what policy initiative — if any — Bryant's letter and story will be used to illustrate. Most of what White House officials have told us thus far about the State of the Union relates to tax policy and the big picture state of the American economy. But it's possible this could be a plug for the My Brother's Keeper initiative, or perhaps for something new.

But according to the White House, the President's reply told Malik that "security is a priority for me in everything I do as President" and that "if you dare to be bold and creative, work hard every day, and care for others, I'm confident you can achieve anything you imagine. And I will be rooting for you."

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