by A storytelling girl in Dublin asks if Santa is still alive, why it rains so much, and why we have legends
A Letter to Santa from Dublin, Ireland
Dear Santa,
Hello Santa, my name is Saoirse and I am 7 years old. I live in Dublin, in Ireland, where everything is lovely and green. I love telling stories and playing the tin whistle. I have a worried question: is Santa Claus still alive? My geography question is: why does it rain so much in some places? And my social studies question is: why do countries have myths and legends? Go raibh maith agat, Santa!
Love, Saoirse (age 7)
Santa’s Reply
Ho ho ho, hello Saoirse! A girl who tells stories and plays the tin whistle is very dear to me. Please do not worry one bit, because I am very much alive. I am alive in a special way that never fades. As long as people are kind to one another, as long as someone somewhere gives a gift just to bring a smile, I am alive and well. The spirit of giving cannot grow old or fall ill. It lives in every generous heart, including yours. So rest easy, my dear.
Your geography question: why it rains so much
Some places get a lot of rain because of where they sit and which way the wind blows. Your own Ireland is surrounded by the sea, and the moist air blowing in from the ocean drops plenty of rain when it meets the land. All that rain is exactly why Ireland is so beautifully green and is called the Emerald Isle. Read more at National Geographic Kids.
Your social studies question: myths and legends
Countries have myths and legends because long ago, before books and screens, people shared stories out loud to explain the world and to pass on their wisdom. Ireland has some of the richest legends anywhere, full of heroes, fairies, and faraway lands. These stories help a people remember who they are. Explore more at Britannica Kids.
Play me a tune on that whistle, Saoirse. Yours warmly from the North Pole, Santa Claus.
