by Fatouma, age 9 from N’Djamena, Chad, asks Santa about Christmas tree rash, the shrinking Lake Chad, and religious communities in Chad.
Dear Santa, my name is Fatouma, and I am nine years old. I live in N’Djamena, Chad, where my yaya says our whole country is named after a huge lake that used to be even bigger than it is today.
Dear Fatouma, that shrinking lake has worried me too, and I always hope for kinder rains on my way past it every December.
Santa, I have three questions.
What is Christmas tree rash? My cousin got itchy after helping decorate her family’s real tree.
Christmas tree rash usually happens when skin gets a little irritated from tree sap or rough needles, especially with a fresh real tree, Fatouma. A good wash with soap and water, and maybe gloves next time, usually clears it right up. Your cousin’s itchy hands are a small price for such a good smelling tree.
My teacher says Lake Chad used to be much, much bigger than it is now. Is that true?
It is true, Fatouma, Lake Chad has shrunk dramatically over the past several decades due to changing weather patterns and heavy water use. It is a good reminder that we all share responsibility for taking care of the natural places around us, wherever we live.
My yaya says Chad has both Muslim and Christian communities living together, especially in the southern part of the country. Is that true?
It is true, Fatouma, Chad is home to both Muslim and Christian communities, often living and celebrating side by side, especially in the south. That kind of everyday neighborliness across different beliefs is really one of my favorite things to witness on my whole route.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Fatouma Idriss
N’Djamena, Chad
P.S. Can you bring my cousin some gloves for next year’s tree decorating?
Already on the list, Fatouma, itch-free decorating for everyone.
