The Terrors of Sinterklaas

Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.© PV

It can be rather terrifying for young believers to be called forward to face Sinterklaas during his yearly visit to our institutes. Not only do they tremble for the Big Red Book and the accompanying homily, but they may also be called upon to sing a quavering song. In order to make it easier for them, the GoodHolyMan called them forward in sibling pairs, possibly backed up by a reassuring parent. And of course they were ultimately sustained by the lively expectation of a present.

What the children do not realize is that Sinterklaas himself may be equally terrified, even after many years of practice. In this picture, his desperate concentration on his multiple roles causes his face to appear dark and threatening. Fortunately, the old man is soothed and sustained by the gleaming eyes of the accompanying mothers.

Despite all the turmoil in the outside world, the Personnel Club, ably helped by Femke Hoogenraad, managed to organize another joyful Sinterklaas party for the younger children of our multi-national employees. The single Piet (Michel Arts, in smudged pink) was an unmissable presence, and secured the help of the somewhat older children for dispensing presents and pepernoten. A great time was had by all.