December 11, 2024 • 27 mins
Can you believe we had the incredible chance to chat with the one and only Santa Claus? Yes, the real Santa sat down with us to share his timeless wisdom and stories that span centuries! From recalling cherished memories from our childhoods to revealing the origins of the legendary Nicholas of Myrna, Santa's tales are filled with wonder and a reminder of the magic he brings every year. His infectious jolliness lights up the conversation, making us appreciate the true spirit of giving and hope that he embodies. You won't want to miss these heartwarming anecdotes that promise to uplift and inspire both young and old.
Gather your loved ones and especially the little ones, because Santa is here to spread joy and remind us all of the power of kindness and resilience. Through his enchanting stories and reflections, Santa assures us that the heart of his mission is indeed hope through giving. He draws a beautiful picture of how generosity and love have been central to his journey from the earliest days to today. This special episode of Soul Sisteries will surely brighten your season and fill your hearts with the warmth of holiday magic.
Thanks for listening to Soul SiStories. We hope you follow us on your favorite podcast platform. Five-star ratings and reviews always help to spread our message of hope.
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:02):
Welcome to Soul Sisteries.
Speaker 2 (00:08):
I just have to say that was an amazing interview,
sister.
I absolutely loved talking toour special guest today.
Speaker 1 (00:18):
Can you even believe, can you believe that this guest
had the time for us and cameand shared and I mean I'm so
excited, I'm so excited and heremembered everything.
Speaker 2 (00:31):
He remembered things from our childhood, from our
children's childhoods.
He remembers everything,everything, I mean, he really
does see it all.
Speaker 1 (00:42):
He remembered all about your skateboard, sis.
Yes, he remembered the wheelson the skateboard.
Oh my gosh.
He is just one of the mostamazing people ever and
definitely is the spirit of hopefor just people around the
world, right, and certainlyspirit of hope for this season
(01:05):
of the year For sure.
Speaker 2 (01:07):
For sure.
I can't wait for everybody tolisten.
Speaker 1 (01:12):
It's going to be great.
So everybody gather around.
You're going to want to oh man,you're going to want to listen
to this guy.
He's got some great stuff toshare.
I can't wait for you to hearwhat we just heard.
Speaker 2 (01:25):
And bring your kids.
Let your kids gather aroundwhen you listen oh my gosh,
we're so lucky, we're so luckywe got to talk to the guy A full
conversation, not just in themovies, not just, you know, on
when we go to the mall, not justwhen we, you know, get to send
(01:47):
letters.
I didn't know that we wouldever get to have this
conversation.
Speaker 1 (01:50):
No way, no way.
So everybody, listen in, getready to enjoy this next episode
, this very special episode ofSoul Sisteries.
Woo and ho, ho, ho, ho.
We are so excited right nowbecause we have a special guest
(02:16):
here at soul sisteries can'teven believe how lucky we got to
get this guy to come and talkto us today.
I mean, you all know him.
He's amazing.
He's one of our favorite peoplein the world, for sure,
everyone's favorite person,because I mean the magic and the
(02:36):
light and the love that hebrings everywhere he goes, and
he's filled with so much hope,yes, and jolliness.
I mean, you all do you know whoI'm talking about.
Can you even believe it?
You guys?
It's Santa.
Santa is here with us.
Santa, thank you, oh my gosh.
(02:59):
We know that this is like yourbusiest time of the year, for
sure.
So that you took a minute to behere with us means the world,
thank you.
Speaker 3 (03:11):
Well, you are very, very welcome, my dears.
Speaker 2 (03:15):
Oh my gosh, it's so good to see you today, santa.
I didn't know I'd get to seeyou before Christmas Eve, so
this is wonderful.
Speaker 3 (03:22):
This is very special, isn't it?
Speaker 1 (03:26):
It's so special and I know everybody wants to hear
from you, santa.
So, if it's all right with you,we're just going to ask you
some questions and hear from youwhat it is you want to share.
You know, because we talked alittle bit, you know that what
we do here is share stories ofhope and resilience and you know
(03:50):
people walking those life'sjourneys that you know can often
be challenging, but movingforward with the best of what it
is that we are as human beingsand what we do.
And so we use, as part of ourpodcast, the tagline hope
(04:10):
through and we ask each of ourguests what their hope through
word is.
And we're making an assumptionwith you, santa we're assuming
that your hope is through giving, that your hope is through
giving because, I mean, that iswhat you do, that your whole
world is about that.
So talk to us a little bitabout that.
(04:30):
Is giving at the heart andcenter of what your purpose,
your hope, is?
Speaker 3 (04:39):
Absolutely, my dear.
As a matter of fact, my dear.
As a matter of fact, if you goback in time to the very roots
of who Santa Claus might be, youwould find that there is a
story of a young man namedNicholas of Myrna, and Nicholas
(05:00):
was a gift giver.
He would go around and look forthose in need and if they left
shoes out, he'd drop his coinsin, and this was in the fourth
century, my goodness.
Speaker 1 (05:14):
So this has been a very long journey, but always at
the heart of you.
That, just like a calling thatyou were born with.
It sounds like.
Speaker 3 (05:26):
I think that each of us is born with this calling.
Unfortunately, some have let itget buried by other bits of
information that have gotten inthe way, but you'll find that
when a person is feeling theirbest, they give their love
freely, and what more can onegive than their love?
Speaker 1 (05:49):
Oh Santa.
Speaker 2 (05:52):
So many people throughout the year, but even
coming into the holiday seasontend to lose hope.
I'm curious, I guess, whatgives you hope and how we can
share that hope with others.
Speaker 3 (06:07):
Well, the children, of course.
Dreams and wishes abound andcynicism is minimal.
However, when one knows thatthey can make a difference, as
the children do, then thedifference is already made.
That is the beauty of it.
Sometimes, as people get older,they get in the way of
(06:32):
themselves, become concernedabout the world outside in ways
that are going to affect theperson inside, and as soon as we
can release some of those andgo back to the giving part of
ourselves, the world becomes aneven better place.
Speaker 1 (06:52):
That is.
I mean, those are words ofwisdom right there for sure.
I know that that's true for me.
As I get in my worries and mypain, and you know I go, I tend
to go inward and there'ssuffering there and I would
never mean to suggest to anybodythat they should dismiss the
(07:15):
reality of their experience.
We don't deny what's there, butI do know that for me, and
exactly what it is that you'retalking about, santa, that when
we then take that and turn itoutwards and we become focused
on supporting others, lovingothers, kind of getting out of
that deep, dark place inside,things shift for us.
(07:40):
It becomes this incredible win.
At moments it doesn't even seemthat that's possible, but
simply that turning outwardchanges things and the light is
there which you just expressedso gorgeously, santa.
Thank you for that.
Speaker 3 (07:57):
Why, thank you, and just to remember too, holding on
to the feelings that we haveinside is not necessarily a bad
thing, but adding to them, thejoy of giving, the joy of
communing with another person,the joy of celebration, can all
join in with that to make a morecomplete and happy you.
Speaker 1 (08:21):
That's really beautiful, santa, do you think?
I mean, as you were talking, Igot to thinking about music and
how important music is at theholiday season and music is
generally a shared experience,and I wonder if it exists for
the very reason you're talkingabout.
Speaker 3 (08:40):
Oh, it's funny.
You should ask, because when weare up at the workshop, you
would not believe the soundsthat go on.
There are songs in every cornerof the building going on, and
together, instead of a cacophonyof sounds, it is a joyful
celebration of sound.
(09:00):
So I love that so many peoplehave created songs, not only of
a religious or a spiritualvariety, but simple songs of
celebration.
I think of the one Thanksgivingsong that leads into all the
songs that we have and, as Itaught my elves, we found out
(09:23):
the story of prepositions, andover the river and through the
wood to grandmother's house wego.
What a great way to teachprepositional phrases.
Speaker 1 (09:40):
Oh my goodness, Ed, I never thought about that.
That's perfect.
It speaks to the Englishteacher in my heart.
Speaker 2 (09:49):
Santa, you know when I think about just all the
things that you've done in mylife, you know, and of course
everybody's life's around me,and how much giving and hope you
bring throughout the whole year.
And I know that there's peoplewho can't do things as
extravagantly as you do rightthey can them to do to kind of
(10:19):
bring some of that peace andhope into their own lives during
this season especially.
Speaker 3 (10:26):
What a beautiful thought to share, that I've run
into more than one person withthat concern earn and I've
thought that a kind word can goso far.
If one is in line at thegrocery store, for instance,
(10:50):
saying hello or wishing happyholidays or offering to pick
something up that's fallen onthe floor, just a small act of
kindness goes a very, very longway this time of the year.
Speaker 2 (10:58):
I love that.
I love that it costs nothing,right, I love that.
Speaker 1 (11:02):
That's beautiful.
Thank you for that reminder,Santa.
I'm personally thanking you forthat reminder.
Speaker 3 (11:10):
You're very welcome, my dear.
Speaker 1 (11:12):
Thank you, thank you.
So, santa.
You do so much great work inthe world and I assume you have
tremendous support around you inorder to help hold you up for
all that you do.
Can you tell us a little bitabout who in your world inspires
(11:33):
you and really helps keep yougoing?
Speaker 3 (11:36):
Well, the obvious choices, of course, would be my
beloved Mrs Claus, who is thereall the time doing everything
behind the scenes, and then shegets to celebrate with me when
we go out on the sleigh throughneighborhoods.
But even on Christmas Evethrough neighborhoods.
(12:00):
But even on Christmas Eve shedoesn't get to ride with me,
she's already cleaning up andgetting things set.
I must think also of the elvesthat help so much, very
important.
But on a more personal note foryou, dears, I think of what can
happen when each of us shinesour own little light, just a
little light, that if we jointogether with our little light,
(12:23):
even in the darkest world, wecan light the way for those that
follow behind.
Speaker 1 (12:29):
I feel that in my heart, santa, thank you for that
.
We can all be like Rudolph,yeah.
Speaker 2 (12:51):
Rudolph knows for sure, this little light of mine,
this path for yourself and thisamazing, I guess, story that we
all get to celebrate, whatwould your little boy, your
13-year-old self, your10-year-old self, no-transcript.
Speaker 3 (13:14):
I believe that my 13-year-old self would say not
bad old man, not bad at all.
Speaker 1 (13:23):
Yeah, I hope so.
Not bad at all is anunderstatement.
This is some great work thatyou do, santa, and we're all so
grateful for it.
So, santa, here's a funquestion for you.
We like to ask this of ourguests.
I think, santa, you know thesports world right.
(13:43):
And when, say, a pitcher walksout to the mound, there's a song
that is played for him or her.
An athlete has a walk-in song,right, Santa?
What is your walk-in song?
Speaker 3 (14:00):
What a great thought.
Oh, I've imagined it so manytimes.
I believe it would be Walkingin a Winter Wonderland.
Speaker 1 (14:12):
What a perfect choice , and I love that song.
Speaker 3 (14:15):
Oh, that's a good song to love.
It brings joy to my heart.
Speaker 2 (14:21):
And I have to say, you know I've already played on
repeat all of my Christmas musicand now when that song comes up
, I'm actually going to pictureyou walking to the mound to
throw out a ball.
Speaker 1 (14:31):
So I want that image in my head, or maybe walking to
the mound to throw out a presentin my head, or maybe walking to
the mound to throw out apresent.
Speaker 3 (14:42):
Wouldn't that be fun.
Speaker 1 (14:45):
Just make sure we don't take Rudolph's nose.
We won't.
Maybe, Santa, you could get oneof those like t-shirt cannon
things and shoot gifts out intothe stands.
Speaker 2 (14:54):
Wouldn't that be fun, santa, you know, I think we all
have memories.
I mean, I have memories from mychildhood with you.
I have memories from mychildren's childhood with you.
We're still making memoriestoday with you.
I'm sure if I talked to mymother or could go back to my
grandparents, they would tell metheir own memories of you.
(15:16):
How do you hope you know, Iguess?
How do you hope to beremembered by each generation?
How do you hope to beremembered?
Speaker 3 (15:25):
I think it was said best by another man, but you
listen to this and see what youthink.
It goes like this the work goeson, the cause endures, the hope
still lives and the dream shallnever die.
I see that as a wonderfulthought for use.
(15:46):
Truly, If Santa can live onthrough the deeds that need to
be done, the light shining, thecause that endures, then things
will be well said.
And that was said by that youngboy, Teddy Kennedy, many years
ago.
Speaker 1 (16:03):
Oh, my goodness, oh goodness, do you remember all of
the children, santa?
There are so many, there aremillions.
Speaker 3 (16:12):
You are correct, there are millions and it is
uncanny.
There are millions and it isuncanny that I can remember as
many children as I can, such asyou, donna, and you, diana.
I could not forget the likes ofyou and the desires you had,
and I remember a few Christmaseswhere you kindly gave of
(16:33):
yourselves.
Girls, you kindly gave ofyourselves.
Speaker 1 (16:37):
Oh, thank you, santa.
We both, when we were littlegirls, we definitely like to
make things we made.
We did a lot of handmade giftswith our siblings um, for each
other and for our parents.
We wrote things and we paintedthings, and I think one of the
ones we kids remember most oftenis when we would make ties for
(17:01):
our dad.
We would simply cut them out offabric, wrap them up and give
them to him.
You know he put them on to hiscredit.
We thought we were pretty slickin those handmade ties.
Speaker 3 (17:18):
Handmade ties.
I will never think of a tiethat I give as a gift without
yours.
Speaker 1 (17:27):
You're so sweet, Santa.
Speaker 2 (17:29):
I'm sorry.
I was trying to think of all ofthe gifts that I got over the
years from you, santa, all ofthe different things that you
would leave at our house, and mymemory is waking up Christmas
morning and, of course, havingto wait down the hallway for dad
to get the camera ready, and wehad to line up in age order, so
I got to go first, which Iloved, but he would video us
(17:52):
coming out.
We get to see all the giftsthat you left for us, and one
year in particular I canremember I think I was about 10,
santa and I turned the cornerand you had left me this yellow
skateboard that I wanted sobadly and my brother thought for
sure it was for him becausethere was no way Santa would
(18:12):
bring me a skateboard.
But it was my pile and myparents assured me that that's
what Santa brought for me and Ihad so much fun riding that
skateboard.
Yeah.
Speaker 3 (18:24):
Santa knows, santa knows.
And those Chicago trucks madeall the difference on that
yellow skateboard.
Speaker 2 (18:35):
Oh, I love it.
Speaker 1 (18:36):
Thank you so much.
Oh, I love it.
Thank you so much, santa, youreally do know.
Well, I want to say one of myfavorite memories of a Santa
gift Each year.
Boy, we could count on it yearafter year, like clockwork.
It was amazing, santa.
You would put in my stockingand in each of my sibling
stockings we got a box of 64crayons, new crayons, the one
(18:59):
with the sharpener in the box.
Oh, my gosh, that made it forme.
I mean, you know, a whole yearworth of coloring with sharp
pointed crayons.
That was good stuff, man.
You knew exactly what it wasthat this little girl wanted.
So, thank you.
Speaker 3 (19:16):
Those crayon sharpeners made a big difference
for artists like you.
Without that, those brokencrayons pile up, don't they they
?
Speaker 1 (19:26):
do they do.
But boy, if you're crafty, youcan learn to make little wax,
melted wax projects with thosecrayons too.
They can go on endlessly.
It's a gift that keeps ongiving.
Speaker 3 (19:37):
They do.
I remember many childrenleaving me stained glass windows
with the shavings of theircrayons to iron between two
sheets of wax paper, yes, and aframe cut out around it.
They made my journey that nightever so delightful.
(19:58):
Oh, that's so fun that nightever so delightful.
Speaker 1 (20:00):
Oh, that's so fun.
I want to do arts and craftsnow today.
I think that's what I'll doafterwards.
Speaker 2 (20:04):
That's what we'll go play Santa one of the questions
we always had growing up, and mychildren have had the same
question.
You know, so many of us leaveyou cookies and milk.
Somehow you manage to eat thecookies and milk that everybody
leaves for you, and I'm justwondering if there's one cookie
(20:25):
that you might like more thanother, or if you think that they
are all equal and you enjoyeating them all the same.
Speaker 3 (20:33):
I enjoy eating them all the same, but remember that
once I come down that chimney onChristmas Eve, those cookies
are magical and I can make themdisappear.
Speaker 1 (20:49):
Good thing, too, because that's a lot of cookies.
Speaker 3 (20:52):
Oh, I do add to my girth on that evening.
Speaker 1 (20:59):
Well, I'm sure you need to burn up a lot of
calories and all that work thatyou do.
I mean, that's a prettystrenuous night I can't even
imagine.
Speaker 3 (21:06):
I'm glad to be a part of it.
That's what I can share.
Speaker 1 (21:10):
Oh, beautiful.
Speaker 3 (21:11):
But the opportunity to give, and with all the magic
that goes with this, it's aperfect combination for this old
soul.
Speaker 1 (21:20):
I love it.
So, santa, I think everybodywants to know because we know
what you're doing all throughDecember and leading up to the
24th and you do your magicalride into the wee hours of the
25th what is December 26th likefor Santa Claus?
Speaker 3 (21:38):
Why it's Boxing Day, of course.
Speaker 1 (21:41):
Well, that's true, so the giving continues.
Speaker 3 (21:44):
Yes, it does.
However, it's toned back quitea bit and I get to observe it
from a distance rather thanbeing a part of the old
experience.
Speaker 1 (21:54):
Does Santa ever take a vacation?
Speaker 3 (21:57):
Indeed, he does.
Speaker 1 (21:59):
Well, excellent.
We won't ask you to give awayyour favorite vacation spot,
because I imagine you would beoverwhelmed with adoring fans.
Speaker 3 (22:08):
Well, let's just say that my Hawaiian shirts are very
well worn in January.
Speaker 2 (22:16):
I have to just remember one trip in the summer,
when my daughter was aboutthree years old, and I won't say
where we were, but you willremember this, santa.
We were on a vacation and shejumped out of the stroller and
ran to you wearing your Hawaiianshirt while you were on
vacation in the same place.
Speaker 3 (22:39):
Well, that will happen.
Speaker 2 (22:41):
It was a wonderful memory we have because she
thought she was back Christmastime, so that was amazing.
Speaker 1 (22:49):
That's gosh, what a precious memory.
That is All right, santa.
So we like to do what we callour rapid fire questions.
I don't even know how rapidthey are, but we just have a
series of fun little questionsthat we would love to ask you
and just answer whatever firstcomes to your mind.
If you would, you ready?
Speaker 3 (23:07):
Yes.
Speaker 1 (23:09):
All right, santa.
What color is hope?
Speaker 3 (23:12):
Hope is the color of lapis lazuli.
Speaker 1 (23:17):
Santa man, you are an educated and intelligent man.
I love it.
Speaker 2 (23:22):
Santa, what does hope sound like?
Speaker 3 (23:25):
Hope sounds like a single singing voice joined by
many, many more.
Speaker 1 (23:31):
What is a joy?
Let me say it better Joy is.
Speaker 3 (23:35):
Joy is the chance to share your gifts with others and
, almost as importantly, forthem to share their gifts with
you.
We need to be able to give, butwe also need to be able to
receive.
Speaker 1 (23:50):
That is such an excellent point to make.
Sometimes it's the hardestthing for us.
Right Is to receive, and toreceive with an open heart.
Thank you for that reminder.
Speaker 2 (24:01):
Santa love is.
Speaker 3 (24:05):
Love is the gift that always keeps on giving.
You can never give too muchlove.
Speaker 1 (24:11):
And it multiplies right as you give it.
Love is something.
Speaker 3 (24:15):
If you give it away, you end up having more.
Speaker 1 (24:20):
It's just like a magic penny.
Speaker 3 (24:22):
Thank, you Like a magic penny.
Speaker 1 (24:25):
Santa, the meaning of life is the meaning of life.
Speaker 3 (24:30):
if each of us lets our little light shine, as I
mentioned before, then we jointogether and the light becomes
brighter, and that light that isbecoming brighter is our
collective life.
Speaker 1 (24:47):
Yeah, and Santa, you're inspiring, me.
Speaker 3 (24:50):
Right.
Speaker 2 (24:50):
Thank you, oh of course, the theme of this
podcast is hope.
So hope is what?
Speaker 3 (24:58):
Hope is knowing that opportunities lie ahead.
They might not be the ones thatyou had planned on.
Sometimes odd things will comeup in our mind's eye, and yet in
the long run, we work them outand we make the best of the
situations that come our way.
That is what hope is.
(25:19):
Hoping for the best helps us toachieve our best.
Speaker 1 (25:24):
Thank you, santa.
For sure, santa, that was justbeautiful and we so appreciate
your time and your presence herewith us.
I mean, this is a treat, sis.
Did you ever think that wewould get to talk?
Speaker 2 (25:38):
live with Santa like this, especially not in December
, when I know you are so busy.
Santa, I so appreciate yousetting aside this time to be
with us today.
Speaker 3 (25:48):
Well, it is a great joy to spend time with you,
ladies.
I've enjoyed spending time withyou over lo these many years,
and may we continue to enjoythis time together.
Speaker 1 (26:01):
Amen to that for sure .
Santa, I want you to know howmuch you inspire us and your
heart of giving generates somuch hope for us all endlessly
hope for us all endlessly.
And we are so incrediblygrateful, and we're grateful for
all the ways that you let uspartner with you in this season
(26:23):
and in this spirit, so that wetoo can give and share in this
wonderful connection with eachother.
Because it's just, it's sosimple really, isn't it?
It's so simple to reach out andmake that connection.
Speaker 3 (26:38):
Thank you, it's the first step.
Speaker 1 (26:41):
It's the first step.
Thank you for that, Santa.
Santa, is there anything thatyou want to share with us before
we conclude?
You've shared so much wisdomalready.
Speaker 3 (26:51):
Well, come in close.
Speaker 1 (26:52):
Yes.
Speaker 3 (26:55):
Merry Christmas everyone.
Speaker 1 (27:00):
Merry Christmas, santa.
Speaker 3 (27:03):
Yes, Thank you.
Speaker 1 (27:04):
Thank you, santa, we'll see you soon, I know, take
care, santa Claus, goodbye,goodbye everyone Merry Christmas
.
Speaker 2 (27:18):
Thanks for joining us today on Soul Sisteries.
Speaker 1 (27:21):
And thanks for sharing stories with us.
We'd love to hear your storiesas well and keep the
conversation going, absolutelykeeping the hope going.
So we're really hopeful thatyou'll connect with our guests
as well, who have great storiesto share.
Connect with our guests as well, who have great stories to
share.
Go ahead and follow them invarious social media platforms
(27:41):
or live venues, wherever it isthat they're performing and
sharing what they do.
Speaker 2 (27:46):
We would love to have you follow us on all of our
social media platforms,subscribe and rate, as that will
help us get our message of hopeout to others.
Thanks for listening to SoulSisteries.
Welcome to Soul Sisteries.
Speaker 2 (00:08):
I just have to say that was an amazing interview,
sister.
I absolutely loved talking toour special guest today.
Speaker 1 (00:18):
Can you even believe, can you believe that this guest
had the time for us and cameand shared and I mean I'm so
excited, I'm so excited and heremembered everything.
Speaker 2 (00:31):
He remembered things from our childhood, from our
children's childhoods.
He remembers everything,everything, I mean, he really
does see it all.
Speaker 1 (00:42):
He remembered all about your skateboard, sis.
Yes, he remembered the wheelson the skateboard.
Oh my gosh.
He is just one of the mostamazing people ever and
definitely is the spirit of hopefor just people around the
world, right, and certainlyspirit of hope for this season
(01:05):
of the year For sure.
Speaker 2 (01:07):
For sure.
I can't wait for everybody tolisten.
Speaker 1 (01:12):
It's going to be great.
So everybody gather around.
You're going to want to oh man,you're going to want to listen
to this guy.
He's got some great stuff toshare.
I can't wait for you to hearwhat we just heard.
Speaker 2 (01:25):
And bring your kids.
Let your kids gather aroundwhen you listen oh my gosh,
we're so lucky, we're so luckywe got to talk to the guy A full
conversation, not just in themovies, not just, you know, on
when we go to the mall, not justwhen we, you know, get to send
(01:47):
letters.
I didn't know that we wouldever get to have this
conversation.
Speaker 1 (01:50):
No way, no way.
So everybody, listen in, getready to enjoy this next episode
, this very special episode ofSoul Sisteries.
Woo and ho, ho, ho, ho.
We are so excited right nowbecause we have a special guest
(02:16):
here at soul sisteries can'teven believe how lucky we got to
get this guy to come and talkto us today.
I mean, you all know him.
He's amazing.
He's one of our favorite peoplein the world, for sure,
everyone's favorite person,because I mean the magic and the
(02:36):
light and the love that hebrings everywhere he goes, and
he's filled with so much hope,yes, and jolliness.
I mean, you all do you know whoI'm talking about.
Can you even believe it?
You guys?
It's Santa.
Santa is here with us.
Santa, thank you, oh my gosh.
(02:59):
We know that this is like yourbusiest time of the year, for
sure.
So that you took a minute to behere with us means the world,
thank you.
Speaker 3 (03:11):
Well, you are very, very welcome, my dears.
Speaker 2 (03:15):
Oh my gosh, it's so good to see you today, santa.
I didn't know I'd get to seeyou before Christmas Eve, so
this is wonderful.
Speaker 3 (03:22):
This is very special, isn't it?
Speaker 1 (03:26):
It's so special and I know everybody wants to hear
from you, santa.
So, if it's all right with you,we're just going to ask you
some questions and hear from youwhat it is you want to share.
You know, because we talked alittle bit, you know that what
we do here is share stories ofhope and resilience and you know
(03:50):
people walking those life'sjourneys that you know can often
be challenging, but movingforward with the best of what it
is that we are as human beingsand what we do.
And so we use, as part of ourpodcast, the tagline hope
(04:10):
through and we ask each of ourguests what their hope through
word is.
And we're making an assumptionwith you, santa we're assuming
that your hope is through giving, that your hope is through
giving because, I mean, that iswhat you do, that your whole
world is about that.
So talk to us a little bitabout that.
(04:30):
Is giving at the heart andcenter of what your purpose,
your hope, is?
Speaker 3 (04:39):
Absolutely, my dear.
As a matter of fact, my dear.
As a matter of fact, if you goback in time to the very roots
of who Santa Claus might be, youwould find that there is a
story of a young man namedNicholas of Myrna, and Nicholas
(05:00):
was a gift giver.
He would go around and look forthose in need and if they left
shoes out, he'd drop his coinsin, and this was in the fourth
century, my goodness.
Speaker 1 (05:14):
So this has been a very long journey, but always at
the heart of you.
That, just like a calling thatyou were born with.
It sounds like.
Speaker 3 (05:26):
I think that each of us is born with this calling.
Unfortunately, some have let itget buried by other bits of
information that have gotten inthe way, but you'll find that
when a person is feeling theirbest, they give their love
freely, and what more can onegive than their love?
Speaker 1 (05:49):
Oh Santa.
Speaker 2 (05:52):
So many people throughout the year, but even
coming into the holiday seasontend to lose hope.
I'm curious, I guess, whatgives you hope and how we can
share that hope with others.
Speaker 3 (06:07):
Well, the children, of course.
Dreams and wishes abound andcynicism is minimal.
However, when one knows thatthey can make a difference, as
the children do, then thedifference is already made.
That is the beauty of it.
Sometimes, as people get older,they get in the way of
(06:32):
themselves, become concernedabout the world outside in ways
that are going to affect theperson inside, and as soon as we
can release some of those andgo back to the giving part of
ourselves, the world becomes aneven better place.
Speaker 1 (06:52):
That is.
I mean, those are words ofwisdom right there for sure.
I know that that's true for me.
As I get in my worries and mypain, and you know I go, I tend
to go inward and there'ssuffering there and I would
never mean to suggest to anybodythat they should dismiss the
(07:15):
reality of their experience.
We don't deny what's there, butI do know that for me, and
exactly what it is that you'retalking about, santa, that when
we then take that and turn itoutwards and we become focused
on supporting others, lovingothers, kind of getting out of
that deep, dark place inside,things shift for us.
(07:40):
It becomes this incredible win.
At moments it doesn't even seemthat that's possible, but
simply that turning outwardchanges things and the light is
there which you just expressedso gorgeously, santa.
Thank you for that.
Speaker 3 (07:57):
Why, thank you, and just to remember too, holding on
to the feelings that we haveinside is not necessarily a bad
thing, but adding to them, thejoy of giving, the joy of
communing with another person,the joy of celebration, can all
join in with that to make a morecomplete and happy you.
Speaker 1 (08:21):
That's really beautiful, santa, do you think?
I mean, as you were talking, Igot to thinking about music and
how important music is at theholiday season and music is
generally a shared experience,and I wonder if it exists for
the very reason you're talkingabout.
Speaker 3 (08:40):
Oh, it's funny.
You should ask, because when weare up at the workshop, you
would not believe the soundsthat go on.
There are songs in every cornerof the building going on, and
together, instead of a cacophonyof sounds, it is a joyful
celebration of sound.
(09:00):
So I love that so many peoplehave created songs, not only of
a religious or a spiritualvariety, but simple songs of
celebration.
I think of the one Thanksgivingsong that leads into all the
songs that we have and, as Itaught my elves, we found out
(09:23):
the story of prepositions, andover the river and through the
wood to grandmother's house wego.
What a great way to teachprepositional phrases.
Speaker 1 (09:40):
Oh my goodness, Ed, I never thought about that.
That's perfect.
It speaks to the Englishteacher in my heart.
Speaker 2 (09:49):
Santa, you know when I think about just all the
things that you've done in mylife, you know, and of course
everybody's life's around me,and how much giving and hope you
bring throughout the whole year.
And I know that there's peoplewho can't do things as
extravagantly as you do rightthey can them to do to kind of
(10:19):
bring some of that peace andhope into their own lives during
this season especially.
Speaker 3 (10:26):
What a beautiful thought to share, that I've run
into more than one person withthat concern earn and I've
thought that a kind word can goso far.
If one is in line at thegrocery store, for instance,
(10:50):
saying hello or wishing happyholidays or offering to pick
something up that's fallen onthe floor, just a small act of
kindness goes a very, very longway this time of the year.
Speaker 2 (10:58):
I love that.
I love that it costs nothing,right, I love that.
Speaker 1 (11:02):
That's beautiful.
Thank you for that reminder,Santa.
I'm personally thanking you forthat reminder.
Speaker 3 (11:10):
You're very welcome, my dear.
Speaker 1 (11:12):
Thank you, thank you.
So, santa.
You do so much great work inthe world and I assume you have
tremendous support around you inorder to help hold you up for
all that you do.
Can you tell us a little bitabout who in your world inspires
(11:33):
you and really helps keep yougoing?
Speaker 3 (11:36):
Well, the obvious choices, of course, would be my
beloved Mrs Claus, who is thereall the time doing everything
behind the scenes, and then shegets to celebrate with me when
we go out on the sleigh throughneighborhoods.
But even on Christmas Evethrough neighborhoods.
(12:00):
But even on Christmas Eve shedoesn't get to ride with me,
she's already cleaning up andgetting things set.
I must think also of the elvesthat help so much, very
important.
But on a more personal note foryou, dears, I think of what can
happen when each of us shinesour own little light, just a
little light, that if we jointogether with our little light,
(12:23):
even in the darkest world, wecan light the way for those that
follow behind.
Speaker 1 (12:29):
I feel that in my heart, santa, thank you for that
.
We can all be like Rudolph,yeah.
Speaker 2 (12:51):
Rudolph knows for sure, this little light of mine,
this path for yourself and thisamazing, I guess, story that we
all get to celebrate, whatwould your little boy, your
13-year-old self, your10-year-old self, no-transcript.
Speaker 3 (13:14):
I believe that my 13-year-old self would say not
bad old man, not bad at all.
Speaker 1 (13:23):
Yeah, I hope so.
Not bad at all is anunderstatement.
This is some great work thatyou do, santa, and we're all so
grateful for it.
So, santa, here's a funquestion for you.
We like to ask this of ourguests.
I think, santa, you know thesports world right.
(13:43):
And when, say, a pitcher walksout to the mound, there's a song
that is played for him or her.
An athlete has a walk-in song,right, Santa?
What is your walk-in song?
Speaker 3 (14:00):
What a great thought.
Oh, I've imagined it so manytimes.
I believe it would be Walkingin a Winter Wonderland.
Speaker 1 (14:12):
What a perfect choice , and I love that song.
Speaker 3 (14:15):
Oh, that's a good song to love.
It brings joy to my heart.
Speaker 2 (14:21):
And I have to say, you know I've already played on
repeat all of my Christmas musicand now when that song comes up
, I'm actually going to pictureyou walking to the mound to
throw out a ball.
Speaker 1 (14:31):
So I want that image in my head, or maybe walking to
the mound to throw out a presentin my head, or maybe walking to
the mound to throw out apresent.
Speaker 3 (14:42):
Wouldn't that be fun.
Speaker 1 (14:45):
Just make sure we don't take Rudolph's nose.
We won't.
Maybe, Santa, you could get oneof those like t-shirt cannon
things and shoot gifts out intothe stands.
Speaker 2 (14:54):
Wouldn't that be fun, santa, you know, I think we all
have memories.
I mean, I have memories from mychildhood with you.
I have memories from mychildren's childhood with you.
We're still making memoriestoday with you.
I'm sure if I talked to mymother or could go back to my
grandparents, they would tell metheir own memories of you.
(15:16):
How do you hope you know, Iguess?
How do you hope to beremembered by each generation?
How do you hope to beremembered?
Speaker 3 (15:25):
I think it was said best by another man, but you
listen to this and see what youthink.
It goes like this the work goeson, the cause endures, the hope
still lives and the dream shallnever die.
I see that as a wonderfulthought for use.
(15:46):
Truly, If Santa can live onthrough the deeds that need to
be done, the light shining, thecause that endures, then things
will be well said.
And that was said by that youngboy, Teddy Kennedy, many years
ago.
Speaker 1 (16:03):
Oh, my goodness, oh goodness, do you remember all of
the children, santa?
There are so many, there aremillions.
Speaker 3 (16:12):
You are correct, there are millions and it is
uncanny.
There are millions and it isuncanny that I can remember as
many children as I can, such asyou, donna, and you, diana.
I could not forget the likes ofyou and the desires you had,
and I remember a few Christmaseswhere you kindly gave of
(16:33):
yourselves.
Girls, you kindly gave ofyourselves.
Speaker 1 (16:37):
Oh, thank you, santa.
We both, when we were littlegirls, we definitely like to
make things we made.
We did a lot of handmade giftswith our siblings um, for each
other and for our parents.
We wrote things and we paintedthings, and I think one of the
ones we kids remember most oftenis when we would make ties for
(17:01):
our dad.
We would simply cut them out offabric, wrap them up and give
them to him.
You know he put them on to hiscredit.
We thought we were pretty slickin those handmade ties.
Speaker 3 (17:18):
Handmade ties.
I will never think of a tiethat I give as a gift without
yours.
Speaker 1 (17:27):
You're so sweet, Santa.
Speaker 2 (17:29):
I'm sorry.
I was trying to think of all ofthe gifts that I got over the
years from you, santa, all ofthe different things that you
would leave at our house, and mymemory is waking up Christmas
morning and, of course, havingto wait down the hallway for dad
to get the camera ready, and wehad to line up in age order, so
I got to go first, which Iloved, but he would video us
(17:52):
coming out.
We get to see all the giftsthat you left for us, and one
year in particular I canremember I think I was about 10,
santa and I turned the cornerand you had left me this yellow
skateboard that I wanted sobadly and my brother thought for
sure it was for him becausethere was no way Santa would
(18:12):
bring me a skateboard.
But it was my pile and myparents assured me that that's
what Santa brought for me and Ihad so much fun riding that
skateboard.
Yeah.
Speaker 3 (18:24):
Santa knows, santa knows.
And those Chicago trucks madeall the difference on that
yellow skateboard.
Speaker 2 (18:35):
Oh, I love it.
Speaker 1 (18:36):
Thank you so much.
Oh, I love it.
Thank you so much, santa, youreally do know.
Well, I want to say one of myfavorite memories of a Santa
gift Each year.
Boy, we could count on it yearafter year, like clockwork.
It was amazing, santa.
You would put in my stockingand in each of my sibling
stockings we got a box of 64crayons, new crayons, the one
(18:59):
with the sharpener in the box.
Oh, my gosh, that made it forme.
I mean, you know, a whole yearworth of coloring with sharp
pointed crayons.
That was good stuff, man.
You knew exactly what it wasthat this little girl wanted.
So, thank you.
Speaker 3 (19:16):
Those crayon sharpeners made a big difference
for artists like you.
Without that, those brokencrayons pile up, don't they they
?
Speaker 1 (19:26):
do they do.
But boy, if you're crafty, youcan learn to make little wax,
melted wax projects with thosecrayons too.
They can go on endlessly.
It's a gift that keeps ongiving.
Speaker 3 (19:37):
They do.
I remember many childrenleaving me stained glass windows
with the shavings of theircrayons to iron between two
sheets of wax paper, yes, and aframe cut out around it.
They made my journey that nightever so delightful.
(19:58):
Oh, that's so fun that nightever so delightful.
Speaker 1 (20:00):
Oh, that's so fun.
I want to do arts and craftsnow today.
I think that's what I'll doafterwards.
Speaker 2 (20:04):
That's what we'll go play Santa one of the questions
we always had growing up, and mychildren have had the same
question.
You know, so many of us leaveyou cookies and milk.
Somehow you manage to eat thecookies and milk that everybody
leaves for you, and I'm justwondering if there's one cookie
(20:25):
that you might like more thanother, or if you think that they
are all equal and you enjoyeating them all the same.
Speaker 3 (20:33):
I enjoy eating them all the same, but remember that
once I come down that chimney onChristmas Eve, those cookies
are magical and I can make themdisappear.
Speaker 1 (20:49):
Good thing, too, because that's a lot of cookies.
Speaker 3 (20:52):
Oh, I do add to my girth on that evening.
Speaker 1 (20:59):
Well, I'm sure you need to burn up a lot of
calories and all that work thatyou do.
I mean, that's a prettystrenuous night I can't even
imagine.
Speaker 3 (21:06):
I'm glad to be a part of it.
That's what I can share.
Speaker 1 (21:10):
Oh, beautiful.
Speaker 3 (21:11):
But the opportunity to give, and with all the magic
that goes with this, it's aperfect combination for this old
soul.
Speaker 1 (21:20):
I love it.
So, santa, I think everybodywants to know because we know
what you're doing all throughDecember and leading up to the
24th and you do your magicalride into the wee hours of the
25th what is December 26th likefor Santa Claus?
Speaker 3 (21:38):
Why it's Boxing Day, of course.
Speaker 1 (21:41):
Well, that's true, so the giving continues.
Speaker 3 (21:44):
Yes, it does.
However, it's toned back quitea bit and I get to observe it
from a distance rather thanbeing a part of the old
experience.
Speaker 1 (21:54):
Does Santa ever take a vacation?
Speaker 3 (21:57):
Indeed, he does.
Speaker 1 (21:59):
Well, excellent.
We won't ask you to give awayyour favorite vacation spot,
because I imagine you would beoverwhelmed with adoring fans.
Speaker 3 (22:08):
Well, let's just say that my Hawaiian shirts are very
well worn in January.
Speaker 2 (22:16):
I have to just remember one trip in the summer,
when my daughter was aboutthree years old, and I won't say
where we were, but you willremember this, santa.
We were on a vacation and shejumped out of the stroller and
ran to you wearing your Hawaiianshirt while you were on
vacation in the same place.
Speaker 3 (22:39):
Well, that will happen.
Speaker 2 (22:41):
It was a wonderful memory we have because she
thought she was back Christmastime, so that was amazing.
Speaker 1 (22:49):
That's gosh, what a precious memory.
That is All right, santa.
So we like to do what we callour rapid fire questions.
I don't even know how rapidthey are, but we just have a
series of fun little questionsthat we would love to ask you
and just answer whatever firstcomes to your mind.
If you would, you ready?
Speaker 3 (23:07):
Yes.
Speaker 1 (23:09):
All right, santa.
What color is hope?
Speaker 3 (23:12):
Hope is the color of lapis lazuli.
Speaker 1 (23:17):
Santa man, you are an educated and intelligent man.
I love it.
Speaker 2 (23:22):
Santa, what does hope sound like?
Speaker 3 (23:25):
Hope sounds like a single singing voice joined by
many, many more.
Speaker 1 (23:31):
What is a joy?
Let me say it better Joy is.
Speaker 3 (23:35):
Joy is the chance to share your gifts with others and
, almost as importantly, forthem to share their gifts with
you.
We need to be able to give, butwe also need to be able to
receive.
Speaker 1 (23:50):
That is such an excellent point to make.
Sometimes it's the hardestthing for us.
Right Is to receive, and toreceive with an open heart.
Thank you for that reminder.
Speaker 2 (24:01):
Santa love is.
Speaker 3 (24:05):
Love is the gift that always keeps on giving.
You can never give too muchlove.
Speaker 1 (24:11):
And it multiplies right as you give it.
Love is something.
Speaker 3 (24:15):
If you give it away, you end up having more.
Speaker 1 (24:20):
It's just like a magic penny.
Speaker 3 (24:22):
Thank, you Like a magic penny.
Speaker 1 (24:25):
Santa, the meaning of life is the meaning of life.
Speaker 3 (24:30):
if each of us lets our little light shine, as I
mentioned before, then we jointogether and the light becomes
brighter, and that light that isbecoming brighter is our
collective life.
Speaker 1 (24:47):
Yeah, and Santa, you're inspiring, me.
Speaker 3 (24:50):
Right.
Speaker 2 (24:50):
Thank you, oh of course, the theme of this
podcast is hope.
So hope is what?
Speaker 3 (24:58):
Hope is knowing that opportunities lie ahead.
They might not be the ones thatyou had planned on.
Sometimes odd things will comeup in our mind's eye, and yet in
the long run, we work them outand we make the best of the
situations that come our way.
That is what hope is.
(25:19):
Hoping for the best helps us toachieve our best.
Speaker 1 (25:24):
Thank you, santa.
For sure, santa, that was justbeautiful and we so appreciate
your time and your presence herewith us.
I mean, this is a treat, sis.
Did you ever think that wewould get to talk?
Speaker 2 (25:38):
live with Santa like this, especially not in December
, when I know you are so busy.
Santa, I so appreciate yousetting aside this time to be
with us today.
Speaker 3 (25:48):
Well, it is a great joy to spend time with you,
ladies.
I've enjoyed spending time withyou over lo these many years,
and may we continue to enjoythis time together.
Speaker 1 (26:01):
Amen to that for sure .
Santa, I want you to know howmuch you inspire us and your
heart of giving generates somuch hope for us all endlessly
hope for us all endlessly.
And we are so incrediblygrateful, and we're grateful for
all the ways that you let uspartner with you in this season
(26:23):
and in this spirit, so that wetoo can give and share in this
wonderful connection with eachother.
Because it's just, it's sosimple really, isn't it?
It's so simple to reach out andmake that connection.
Speaker 3 (26:38):
Thank you, it's the first step.
Speaker 1 (26:41):
It's the first step.
Thank you for that, Santa.
Santa, is there anything thatyou want to share with us before
we conclude?
You've shared so much wisdomalready.
Speaker 3 (26:51):
Well, come in close.
Speaker 1 (26:52):
Yes.
Speaker 3 (26:55):
Merry Christmas everyone.
Speaker 1 (27:00):
Merry Christmas, santa.
Speaker 3 (27:03):
Yes, Thank you.
Speaker 1 (27:04):
Thank you, santa, we'll see you soon, I know, take
care, santa Claus, goodbye,goodbye everyone Merry Christmas
.
Speaker 2 (27:18):
Thanks for joining us today on Soul Sisteries.
Speaker 1 (27:21):
And thanks for sharing stories with us.
We'd love to hear your storiesas well and keep the
conversation going, absolutelykeeping the hope going.
So we're really hopeful thatyou'll connect with our guests
as well, who have great storiesto share.
Connect with our guests as well, who have great stories to
share.
Go ahead and follow them invarious social media platforms
(27:41):
or live venues, wherever it isthat they're performing and
sharing what they do.
Speaker 2 (27:46):
We would love to have you follow us on all of our
social media platforms,subscribe and rate, as that will
help us get our message of hopeout to others.
Thanks for listening to SoulSisteries.
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