December 19 is the International Day of the poor, as celebrated by the global community. This day was introduced in 1995 by the United Nations.
It is a terrifying figure to grasp in one’s mind, but for example, the period between 1999 and 2007 had over 300 million people die of poverty. This number is more than the victim toll of the two world wars... Poverty deprives people not just of money, it is about the lack of good jobs, housing, education, and more.
Although this important day is not related to any religious holiday, in my opinion it is important that it coincides with St. Nicholas Day. After all, he is the patron saint of the poor and of everyone who is in trouble.
There is a legend about St. Nicholas. It has several versions, but the essence is one.
According to the legend, the saint learned about three sisters who had no dowry and could not marry because of this. So their father planned to sell the sisters to a brothel. Therefore, St. Nicholas threw a piece of gold into the each sister’s window and thus rescued them from the severe fate. According to some versions of the legend, this father learned who helped his family and then repented, and the other versions maintain that no one found out the identity of the benefactor. However, it is not that important – because it is the figure of St. Nicolas that inspired the tradition of anonymous gifts.
After this legend some icons depict St. Nicholas holding three golden balls in hand, or three apples.
So, I think, December 19 is good day for any of us to play St. Nicholas a little and help those in trouble. Although, of course, one should not be limited by particular dates. Good deeds are worthy anytime.
