A Letter of Truth and the Wonder of Magic

As a parent, I never wanted to be untruthful with my child. Yet, I have always held in my heart a deep belief in the forces we cannot easily describe - the powerful, invisible influences like that of Saint Nicholas and other archetypes of generosity that guide us. I believe that "truth" isn’t always provable or tangible. It is the magic of the unexplainable, the inspiration when we least expect it, the warmth of a feeling, the power of a memory. There is magic in the world, if you choose to believe.

There comes a moment in every childhood when the literal begins to challenge the magical.

For my son, Noah, that moment arrived when he was nine. He asked me for a "real" picture of Santa Claus. I knew exactly what he was actually seeking: indisputable proof. He was in the midst of what we call the "Nine Year Change" - that first experience of existential crisis where a child realizes the world is far more complex, and sometimes more confusing, than they once believed.

At this age, children seek truth above all else, but I didn't want to give him a "yes" or a "no"; I wanted to give him a way to see the world with a wider lens.

After much contemplation on Christmas Eve all those years ago, I received what I can only describe as an inspiration. Words came to me in answer to Noah’s unspoken question.

Since then, this letter has traveled far - shared with family, friends, students. parents, and was even published in my local Colorado newspaper. Now, as Noah approaches twenty-five, I share it with you as a reminder that we can always be the brave guardians of our children’s wonder, even as they grow. 💫

Santa's Letter To Noah at Nine Years Old:

Dear Noah,

You asked for a picture of me for Christmas – a real picture of Santa Claus. Not many children ask for this as so many of them have their picture taken each year with one of my helpers.

I am not surprised that you have asked, though, Noah, because you are a wise and deeply thoughtful soul. 

And if you are wise enough to ask the question, you are wise enough now to hear from me who I really am.

You see – in truth – my picture cannot be taken.
Cameras cannot capture me, nor can the human eye in most cases (though some people like you have enough magic to feel me clearly). 

So many people have tried to picture what I would look like if I truly had human form. I like the image they have created for me. It is as jolly and kind a person as I would ever be.

For, Dear Noah, I am like the fairies, the gnomes, the water spirits and the fire beings. I am both a part of this Earth and a part of the Spirit world at the same time.

I am the light that radiates from the stars, the quiet of the first snow in winter, and the warm feeling you get when you wake up Christmas morning and remember what a special day awaits you. 

I am the colors of the new dawning day and my voice is the laughter of children. I hold in my being all the love, kindness, generosity, care and happiness that Christmas time brings. 

I spread it out around the world as best I can and it is held in the hearts of those who choose to believe.

You see, Noah, everyone in the world must make their choice at one time or another whether or not they will believe in me. I will continue to bring the magic each Christmas time – and I feel sure your heart will always be ready to receive it.

Love to you, dear boy, grow strong and be good. So much love surrounds you. I'll be back next year when you're ten years old!

In friendship and truth,
S. Claus