December 24, 2013
Alexia Isaak
On December 6th, millions of people around the world celebrate the Saint's Day of St. Nicholas, also known as, St. Nick. He's, of course, most popularly known as Santa Claus!
The life of dear old Santa tells us a story of a boy raised in a wealthy family. He wanted for nothing and grew up privileged. After his parents passed away, St. Nicholas was better known for taking care of children and making sure they had everything they needed. He used his fortune to give to those who were less fortunate than he rather than indulge on himself and the pleasures of this life. I think it's safe to say St. Nicholas found more joy in giving than receiving and that his primary love language was gifts.
In addition to giving gifts, he also gave money. He is known for leaving coins in the shoes of those who left them out by their doors. For this reason, traditions have developed among many in Russian and Romanian cultures for children to leave out their shoes for gifts from St. Nicholas.
Not only is St. Nicholas the saint who looks after children, he is also known as the patron saint of sailors. Seamen look to St. Nicholas for protection on their seafaring journeys.
This is the story of Santa Claus, and on December 6th each year, we celebrate the memory of good St. Nick.