In the story How Nicholas Became Santa Clause, we experience Nicholas growing from an infant to his late teens. We observe not only his sense of adventure, but also his insatiably curiosity, his impulsivity and mischievousness. All comprising characteristics that would ironically delight yet infuriate any parent.

    A curious child, Nicholas would wander the forest, following and mimicking not only his parents, but also the animals of the farm. On trips with his father, traveling to the castle and to various surrounding towns, Nicholas found himself copying the hand gestures and mouth movements of peoples he observed conducting business, or buying in the markets. He worked hard to learn the strange polyglot of languages. Nicholas worked with Tom both on the farm and in the Woodwright’s workshop.

    Nicholas learned he had a natural ability to make useful things from whatever wood pieces or scraps he had on hand. Nicholas took time to ensure everything was made with love. At the workshop, Nicholas learned to make furniture, tools, and toys. More importantly, Tom and Mary taught Nicholas to be compassionate and faithful. Becoming firmly embedded within his personality, faith led him to become a Bishop, a station that allowed him to gift blessings, teach, and aid his community.

    Traveling with his father, Nicholas witnessed the impoverished, and oppressed station of his neighbors. Their situation saddening him so, he could scarcely stand by and do nothing. With his parents consent, Nicholas began sharing food and medicine produced on the farm with those in need. Furiously hiding away some of his wages, Nicholas shared his saving with his neighbors to ensure they could pay obligatory, yet oppressive taxes. Nicholas struggled to manage his temper, a weakness of control that frequently got him into trouble. Balancing his temper, however, was an inner peace. An empathetic soul Nicholas was kind and generous to a near fault.