by Alina, age 8 from Minsk, Belarus, asks Santa about Coke versus milk, Belarus’s thousand lakes, and Minsk’s post-war rebuilding.
Dear Santa, my name is Alina, and I am eight years old. I live in Minsk, Belarus, where my babulya says our whole city had to be almost completely rebuilt after being badly damaged a long time ago.
Dear Alina, a city rebuilt with that much care always impresses me flying past, your babulya picked a truly resilient hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
Does Santa like Coke? My uncle always leaves one out for you instead of milk.
I appreciate any thoughtful treat left out for me, Alina, though a classic glass of milk and cookies has always been my favorite. Tell your uncle his heart is absolutely in the right place either way.
My babulya says Belarus is sometimes called the country of a thousand lakes. Is that true?
It is true, Alina, Belarus is dotted with thousands of lakes and rivers across its landscape. I always enjoy that sparkling, watery view flying over on my way to your rooftop.
My babulya says Minsk was rebuilt with wide streets and grand buildings after being destroyed during a war. Is that true?
It is true, Alina, much of Minsk was rebuilt with broad avenues and grand architecture after heavy damage during the Second World War. That kind of hopeful rebuilding, choosing to create something new, is really worth admiring.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Alina Kovalenko
Minsk, Belarus
P.S. Will you leave my uncle a note about the milk and cookies preference?
Gently, Alina, I would not want to hurt his feelings.
