The Gnome Conundrum

Why Can't We See Santa Claus?

Unrelated to the New York Sun editorial to little Virginia as to her question about a real Santa Claus (see the heading inset in the right sidebar panel of this web page), the garden gnome conundrum (mystery) does relate to Santa Claus and why no one sees him on Christmas Eve. Here's how it goes:

There are gnomes that inhabit our gardens. But we can't prove their existence, because every time we try to see them, they become invisible.

Hmm! Might not this argument be used for Santa Claus? Yes, there is a Santa Claus who brings gifts and toys to children on Christmas Eve. But we can't prove his existence, because every time we try to see him, he becomes invisible.

But wait! Don't we see Santa Claus every Christmas season in department stores and shopping malls, on the streets gathering charitable donations for the poor, and in festivities and parades featuring his sleigh and reindeer? Actually, no! What we see is Santa's helpers who act on behalf of Santa Claus at Christmastime. You see, Santa and his elves are so busy preparing for his long Christmas Eve trek around the world, he needs helpers in every state and country.

The real Santa Claus enters the homes of children late at night and only on Christmas Eve. And if you awaken from your sleep, and Santa knows it, he disappears like the garden gnome. But every once in a while, Santa doesn't know he's being quietly watched, and that's why some children get to see him on Christmas Eve.

The magic of Santa Claus excites the imaginations of children all over the world.

Long live Santa Claus!