Santa Claus Magic

Every parent faces that one dreaded question this time of year—is Santa Claus real. And most likely every parent has a different answer to this question.

Santa Claus and dogs

"He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist."

The answer to "Is there really a Santa Claus?" depends on how you view the question. From a literal perspective, the Santa Claus of stories—a jolly man living at the North Pole who delivers presents to children worldwide in one night—is a beloved myth based on the historical figure of St. Nicholas.

However, on a deeper level, Santa Claus represents the spirit of generosity, kindness, and joy during the holiday season. In this way, Santa can be seen as real—not as a person, but as a symbol that lives in the hearts of those who believe in spreading goodwill and magic.

As the famous editorial "Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus" says, "He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist."

When my own daughters asked this question, I replied with my own question: “what do you think?”. Their answers were: “I want to believe but it’s not possible for one man to travel the whole world in a night leaving gifts” and I took their response as my jumping off place to answer the original question.

I told them that I believe Santa Claus is magic! He certainly does exist in our hearts and minds if we believe in the magic of giving secret gifts to show our love for family and friends. When we give to charities this time of year we are in a way Santa Claus giving love and help to those in need.

Santa brings joy to people of all ages at Christmas time. Many generations hang on to their own fond memories of Santa in their family. As we carried on our discussion, the girls decided that the idea of Santa is magic and they want to keep that spirit alive in their hearts, but they settled for the truth that Mom & Dad were responsible for putting the gifts under the tree.

In stories and traditions, Santa Claus is portrayed as magical! His magic explains how he accomplishes incredible feats like traveling around the world in one night, fitting down chimneys, knowing what children want for Christmas, and making reindeer fly. This magic is a big part of the wonder and joy associated with Santa.

On a symbolic level, Santa’s “magic” can also be seen as the happiness, kindness, and generosity he inspires in people, especially during the holiday season. While not literal magic, it creates a sense of wonder that feels just as extraordinary.

Whatever your own response is to this question, may you keep the wonder and joy alive for the holiday season. Remember, some of the best gifts aren’t wrapped in pretty paper. Excuse me while I go find the mysterious elf.