Six-year-old inquisitiveness.

IS THERE REALLY A SANTA CLAUS?

“Dad, is there really a Santa Claus?”

“Why do you ask?”

“Jason’s brother said there isn’t. He’s in the sixth grade.”

“What do you think?”

“I think there is . . . but how does he know what I want for Christmas?”

“You write out a list and send it to him, don’t you?”

“Yes, but if every kid does it, how does he ever read them all?”

“Maybe the moms and dads help Santa get some stuff.”

“Like if he runs out of Legos at the North Pole, they can just get them at Target?”

“Maybe that’s how it works sometimes.”

“Or maybe he’s just too busy to make them all himself.”

“I do know moms and dads can tell Santy if the boys and girls have been good for goodness’ sakes and have not been selfish and know the real meaning of Christmas.”

“I do. About Jesus being born and Mary and Joseph and the manger.”

“And how it is better to give than to receive.”

“I always put out cookies and milk for Santa. That’s a gift.”

“I think it’s more like giving to others.”

“To Tío Bob and Aunt Tamara and the cousins?”

“And other kids who aren’t as lucky as you are.”

“Kind of like us being Santa’s helpers.”

“Yeah, that’s a good way to look at it.”

“So how does he find everybody?”

“He must have a map of the world or just know the way.”

“I’ll bet the reindeer know the way, just like Sonny and Coyote know the way home after we’re done riding.”

“Or maybe Santa has a couple good dogs who ride in the sleigh. They could help him get home, too.”

“Like Hattie and Pancho. So, do you think I’ll get an Arctic Lego set for Christmas?”

“I can’t tell for sure. Only Santa knows.”

“Are you gonna get what you want for Christmas?”

“I’ve already got it.”

“Dad, do you believe in Santa Claus?”

“Yep. If you’re smart, you’ll always believe in Santa Claus.”