by Nour, age 8 from Beirut, Lebanon, asks Santa about his elf helpers, the Mediterranean Sea, and Beirut’s ancient trading history.
Dear Santa, my name is Nour, and I am eight years old. I live in Beirut, Lebanon, where my teta says our city has been an important trading port since ancient Phoenician times.
Dear Nour, a port with trading history that ancient deserves a very respectful flyover, your teta picked a truly historic hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
Does Santa have elves? My khal says the presents probably build themselves.
I certainly do have a whole team of hardworking elves, Nour, and I promise your khal that not a single present builds itself. It truly takes a cheerful crew to fill every stocking.
My teta says Beirut sits right along the Mediterranean Sea. Is that true?
It is true, Nour, the Mediterranean Sea stretches along your city’s edge, warm and glimmering. I always enjoy that beautiful coastline on my way to your rooftop.
My teta says Beirut has been an important trading city since ancient Phoenician times. Is that true?
It is true, Nour, Beirut’s roots as a trading port stretch back to ancient Phoenician days, connecting cultures across the Mediterranean. That kind of steady, hardworking connection to the wider world is really something worth admiring.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Nour Khoury
Beirut, Lebanon
P.S. Will you tell my khal the elves deserve extra credit this year?
Already told, Nour, a jolly boss always shares the praise.
