“How could Santa possibly get all the way around the world in one night?”
“How does he get into houses with no chimneys, don’t people lock their doors?”
“Do you think he is related to God, because he would have to be in order to do all of the things he does?”
If you have children, then the holiday interrogation may have already begun. Playing twenty questions with your little one every time you remind them that “Santa is watching,” is exhausting. Not knowing the “right” answer for your child, and finding the appropriate answers may seem like an impossible task. Our children look to us for guidance and understanding, they also follow our lead when it comes to telling the truth. The holidays provide no exception, and Christmas can put us in quite the predicament when cross examination begins. Fortunately, there may be a gray area that holds the “truth” for you and your family.
History of Santa:
The chubby, jolly, white-bearded figure we all know and love as Santa Claus all began with a man named St. Nicholas, many years ago. The name Santa Claus evolved from Nick’s Dutch nickname, Sinter Klaas (Dutch for Saint Nicholas). Saint Nicholas, was in fact dubbed a saint. In order to become a saint one must have accomplished up to three miracles, and St. Nicholas did just that. On three separate occasions he helped to save the lives of multiple people. Nicholas wanted to spread the message of Christ peace and goodwill towards all— the hope filled Christmas. He devoted himself to caring for the poor and defending children. He is the patron saint of sailors, merchants, archers, children, brewers (gotta love that), students and more. Although he is no longer living, based on his history as a saint, it is believed that he had a deep connection with God, and one of his legendary habits was gift-giving done in secret.
It’s definitely not black and white, but nothing in life really is. Believing in Santa can be tricky business, however the message remains clear— be good, do good, help other people. If we can transform our explanation of Santa’s origin into a message of doing better in life, then I say we won!
The truth may be buried deep, but if we look closely enough, the story of Saint Nicholas gives us all the answers we need.
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