by Yara, age 7, asks Baba Noel do children write letters to you, or make wishes a different way?, about the Mediterranean Sea, and why Lebanon celebrates Christmas and Eid
Dear Baba Noel,
My name is Yara and I am 7 years old. I live in Beirut, Lebanon, where we string colored lights along the balconies and my grandmother roasts chestnuts on the stove every single night in December.
First, do children write letters to you, or make wishes a different way?
Second, a geography question: what sea is right next to Beirut?
Third, a school question about my country: why does Lebanon celebrate both Christmas and Eid?
I left you a plate of maamoul cookies and a little cup of Arabic coffee.
Love, Yara, age 7, Beirut, Lebanon, Beirut, Lebanon
From the Desk of Baba Noel
Dear Yara, thank you for the treat, it was wonderful. Now, your questions.
Do children write letters to you, or make wishes a different way?
Both, actually. Many children write letters exactly like this one, and others simply whisper a quiet wish into the night before Christmas. I collect wishes just as carefully as letters, so either way, I hear you.
What sea is right next to Beirut?
Beirut sits right on the Mediterranean Sea, and I always enjoy the view of the coastline lit up at night as the sleigh comes in low over the water. It is one of the prettiest approaches on my whole route.
Why does Lebanon celebrate both Christmas and Eid?
Lebanon is a country with many different religious communities living closely together, including Christians and Muslims, and it officially recognizes eighteen different religious groups. Because of this, Lebanese families celebrate Christmas, Eid, and other holidays throughout the year, often alongside neighbors of different faiths, which I think is a lovely way to practice the same idea Christmas is built on: sharing joy with the people around you.
Sleep well, Yara, and Merry Christmas.
Ho ho ho, Baba Noel
