by Yasmine, age 9 from Algiers, Algeria, asks Santa about his list, being Africa’s largest country, and Algeria’s small Christian community.
Dear Santa, my name is Yasmine, and I am nine years old. I live in Algiers, Algeria, where my jida says our whole city is nicknamed Algiers the White because so many of our buildings are painted a bright, gleaming white.
Dear Yasmine, a city gleaming white against the sea is one of the prettiest sights on my entire African route, your jida picked a truly radiant hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
Does Santa have a list? My little brother is convinced you write down every single thing he does all year long.
I do keep a list, Yasmine, though it focuses more on kindness and good effort than on tracking every little thing. Tell your little brother that trying his best matters far more than being perfect.
My teacher says Algeria is actually the biggest country in all of Africa by land size. Is that true?
It is true, Yasmine, Algeria covers more land than any other country on the entire African continent. I always plan my route carefully to cross that huge stretch of desert and coastline.
My jida says most people in Algeria are Muslim, but there is still a small Christian community here that celebrates Christmas quietly. Is that true?
It is true, Yasmine, Algeria is home to a small Christian community keeping Christmas traditions alive alongside a Muslim majority. Wherever I find even one family celebrating, I am always glad to bring a little extra warmth to their night.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Yasmine Boumediene
Algiers, Algeria
P.S. Can you tell my little brother his list mostly has good things on it?
I already have, Yasmine, mostly good things indeed.
