Why I Never Believed in Santa

“Better to do without books than to believe everything they say.” -Chinese proverb

Sure, I read the stories about St. Nick… and all his associated figures. One of my favorite illustrated seasonal books is The Polar Express; the pictures in it are breath-taking. However, I just couldn’t believe in its words. I was one of those kids who would cry on Santa’s lap–or at least wear a grumpy expression.

I could understand the principle of rewarding nice versus naughty behavior. But a white Santa Claus? If he was so prevalent, then where was his Chinese equivalent? (On a side note, a lot of the Western Santas depicted in China play the saxophone.)

Plus, who could actually slide down chimneys simultaneously all over the world? What about homes without fireplaces? Also, early on I recognized that “Santa’s” presents were signed with my dad’s penmanship.

What are your thoughts on Santa?