Once upon a time in a land not far away, Santa got word that an important election went astray. Disbelief overwhelmed him and depression settled in, but his closest elfin friends assured him Christmas would still happen.
But it wasn’t just Christmas that had Santa concerned; he was genuinely worried that the world might end. And more pettily, he didn’t want to be confused for somebody who voted that guy in. Plus, he thought he’d likely retch if he wore a red hat, so Santa got to thinking that he MUST WEAR BLACK.
So the elves found his classic, red Santa garb and took it to the elfin tailors to explain their charge. The tailors first replaced all red fabric with black, but Santa’s little helpers had to send it right back. They explained that even the white accents must be wracked, for Santa was explicit that he MUST WEAR BLACK.
While the tailors were sewing, Santa’s elves had more things to flag. Like the red sleigh, red reins and the red magic toy bag. So they called upon the help of the full maintenance crew and instructed them all of just what to do. It really was quite simple, as Santa was quite clear; all red must go black, from all clothing to all gear.
But off in the shadows, a certain reindeer was concerned. How to deal with his bright red nose had not yet been discerned. So Rudolf closed his eyes and visualized a feat where he could turn his nose from red to something more discreet. And when he opened up his eyes, magic was in the air. He knew his nose was no longer red, but did not know what was now there…
When all the finishing touches were finally touched, the elves got Santa to show him in a brisk, joyful rush. Santa’s depression quickly lifted and with a big, jolly laugh, his sadness was released thanks to his elfin staff. He hugged his elf sisters and brothers in his big bear arms, before asking the trumpeter to blow the special, magic horn. Everyone on the North Pole, inside the workshop and out, came rushing in to see what this alert was all about. Then Santa announced with his big booming voice, everything that was behind his new aesthetic choice:
“This Christmas we will be all cloaked in black, hidden by the darkness as we hand out gifts from our sack. We will continue to do what we always do, as no one can take that from me or from you. We will stay jolly and we will spread joy, we will celebrate as we give out the toys. Most will not see us as we fly through the air, but those with love-filled hearts will know we are still there. The twinkle of my eye will be a star to wish upon, but kind hearts already have the power to take cruelty on. Though wickedness has won all over the world — peace, love and joy will eternally prevail. We must never give up and must never give in to spite; it will be a happy Christmas and for all a good night!”
As the crowd whooped and hollered, Rudolf slowly appeared. Peeking out from behind the other reindeer, he met Santa’s eyes just as he had feared. But Santa smiled big and motioned Rudolf to his side. For Rudolf’s formerly red nose was now bright blue and much, much bigger sized!
this is so incredibly creative, hopeful, humorous and downright uplifting!!! I'm going to wear all black on Christmas Day with you as my inspiration! I'm happy Rudolf got a blue nose :D amazing new classic Kara!!
Snowflake Reply
2024-12-07 19:47:09
Thank you so much, Snowflake! I will wear black, too! Represent! Glad you dig the blue-nosed Rudolf addition. Thank you for inspiring it! Kara Square2024-12-12 10:32:24
Well done! And much more constructive than the sulking I keep slipping into.
Maybe the elves could borrow a few things from Johnny Cash's wardrobe.
Zenboy1955 Reply
2024-12-08 01:03:12
I've certainly done my share of sulking... how could those love-filled hearts not sulk? I love picturing the elves borrowing Johnny Cash's wears... HEY, elfin tailors! There's more work to be done!
Thank you, Zenboy. I'm loving your offerings. Kara Square2024-12-12 10:34:25
My goodness, things are certainly tough for ol' saint nick this year. Over at ccmixter he's on the verge of a divorce.
Probably a banner year for Krampus though (if he visits 'adults').
In my imagination your story is this years Rankin/Bass special.
Very much enjoyed.
Speck Reply
2024-12-08 08:57:17
Yes... seems like a full Krampus take-over!
I totally pictured Rankin/Bass styled Rudolf when recording this.
And I'm glad you enjoyed it. Thank you, Speck! Kara Square2024-12-12 10:50:33
Brilliant!!!!!! What a fabulous contribution to this event. Also the audio sounds so clean. Bravo! Merry merry to you and yours.
SackJo22 Reply
2024-12-12 10:36:38
Thank you so very much, SackJo. And thank you for your beautiful contributions. Happiest of holidays back to you and yours... with a big hug! Kara Square2024-12-12 10:52:14
Love the animated reading, your pacing is perfect for a storytime session.
This is a new holiday traditional :)
Apoxode Reply
2024-12-12 10:39:26
Thank you, thank you, Apoxode! I'm still smiling from your "Christmas... in Space!" offering. Thank you for everything that you share. Kara Square2024-12-12 10:59:47
Then Santa flew back to the North Pole in Canada, which still isn't a state. :) I love it.
Admiral Bob Reply
2024-12-31 22:52:38
I bet Santa felt a serious release getting back to Canada. Speaking of... got room for 2? Thank you, Admiral. I love your Santa improv, btw. Kara Square2025-01-02 09:22:04
Thumbprints: Apoxode, spinningmerkaba, SackJo22, Snowflake, Speck, Admiral Bob, Zenboy1955, annabloom