Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: SKELETON IN THE CLOSET (11/30/17)
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TITLE: Santa Claus? | Previous Challenge Entry
By Maurice Armstrong
12/06/17 -
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Do you know this guy?
Have you ever met him? I mean, when he’s not wearing the suit and beard.
He’s supposed to be a representative of the Saint Nick. But, has anyone ever done a background check on the man who supposedly slides down the chimney.
I heard, he’s coming to town--so you better watch out--be ready to shout and be on the look-out.
This is no lie. The man you think he is—Is not interested in cookies or a glass of milk--this guy is no saint. That bag he’s carrying---are not Christmas presents to be delivered--they’re items he pilfered.
Each year, the tree lighting ceremony grew bigger. As the value of the gifts increased so too did the number of people. Last year there were large groups of visitors—the young and elderly, coming from bordering townships.
The local newspaper reported, there were also a few families from another state. These curious visitors heard about the unique gifts that Santa gave away every year: laptops, watches, jewelry by Kay, vacation packages, washers and dryers, cars, and college scholarships. Ray and Jennifer got a set of diamond-studded wedding bands for their wedding on New Years’ Day two years ago. Therefore, Christmas in Riverside Falls drew national attention.
The highlight of the tree lighting ceremony was the arrival of “the Jolly good fellow,” during the opening presentation. All recipients were in line, anxious and excited to receive their gifts. They waited—and waited, but Mr. Bell never showed up. A quick investigation revealed that he was last seen heading north on Interstate 95.
The Master-of-Ceremony, running his fingers through his hair, nervously trying to compose himself as he prepared to announce the breaking news.
“Ladies and gentlemen, due to unknown circumstances Santa is apparently running late, however, we will continue with the lighting until he arrives."
Everyone knew Mr. Bell, and Mr. Bell knew everyone. But, the question on everyone’s’ mind was--why would he do such an awful thing?
What got into him?
He’s such a nice person, I don’t know what to say or think.
It's unbelievable. Nothing like this has ever happened in our neighborhood.
Disappointed and angry, the crowd dwindled in unbelief.
Mr. Bell is missing, echoed throughout the entire afternoon.
Within one hour of the breaking news, the local police, firemen and the FBI were engaged in a full-scale investigation.
This, once peaceful community suddenly became a crime scene--emergency lights were flashing everywhere.
After several hours of investigations, the police informed us that Manchu, the manager of the Gas Station had seen Mr. Ball earlier that day dressed and ready for the parade accompanied by someone also dressed as Santa Claus. He said Mr. Bell appeared to be asleep in the passenger’s seat.
At 3:30 pm the next day, the Michigan Police reported, a stolen vehicle found near the Canadian border. An elderly gentleman, dressed as Santa laying in the back--bruised and battered. He remains in a stable condition at a local hospital. On learning of the news, Riverside Falls Police contacted them to confirm the identity of the victim. It was Mr. Bell.
Later that evening border patrol arrested a Jack Froster of Riverside Falls. The Mail Carrier for the past ten years. Mr. Bell had been Jacks supervisor at the post office for several years. A position for which Jack thought, he was better qualified. Though the friendship continued, Jack held an old grudge. He excused himself from numerous opportunities to assist Mr. Bell on the Christmas fund-raising committee. Mr. Bell, now retired, served as its’ Chairman.
Jack confessed, “I never intended to hurt anyone. I just wanted him drunk, so he couldn’t perform his duties as Santa Claus, allowing me the opportunity, to take his place. But, when he passed out, I thought he died. So, I was on my way to Canada. Why? I don't know.”
Why do people envy, hate, steal, plot and murder? The answer is unforgiveness—the root of all bitterness. (Hebrews 12:15.) How often the person you consider as a friend, surprises you with behaviors that leave you with more questions than answers.
Word count:707
Scripture reference: KJV
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Well done,
God bless~