by A girl in Colombo asks how Santa delivers in one night, why Sri Lanka is the teardrop of India, and about religions living together
A Letter to Santa from Colombo, Sri Lanka
Dear Santa,
Ayubowan Santa! My name is Dilani and I am 7 years old. I live in Colombo, in Sri Lanka, a beautiful island shaped a bit like a teardrop. I love climbing trees and drinking king coconut juice. My question is: how does Santa Claus do it? How do you reach all the children in one single night? My geography question is: why is Sri Lanka called the teardrop of India? And my social studies question is: what does it mean for different religions to live side by side? Sthuthi, Santa!
Love, Dilani (age 7)
Santa’s Reply
Ho ho ho, ayubowan Dilani! A tree-climbing girl on a teardrop island asks the greatest question of all. How do I reach every child in one night? The honest answer is Christmas magic, the very best kind there is. On Christmas Eve, time itself seems to stretch and bend just for me. My reindeer fly faster than the wind, my sleigh holds far more than it ever should, and my list guides me to every home. It is the sort of magic that does not need to be explained, only believed in with a happy heart. And believing is something you do beautifully.
Your geography question: the teardrop of India
Your own Sri Lanka is sometimes called the teardrop of India because of its shape and its position. On a map, the island hangs just below the southern tip of India, looking rather like a glistening teardrop in the Indian Ocean. It is a small island packed with mountains, beaches, and lush green tea hills. Read more at National Geographic Kids.
Your social studies question: religions side by side
In your own Sri Lanka, people of several different religions live close together, including Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and Christians. When different faiths live side by side with respect and kindness, they can celebrate each other’s festivals and learn from one another. Living peacefully together makes a country richer and more understanding. Explore more at Britannica Kids.
Climb a tall tree for me, Dilani. Yours warmly from the North Pole, Santa Claus.
