Jake, I've said many times on R&S that certain experiences in my life lead me to my belief. I wish I could reach a different conclusion, but I simply cannot explain them and therefore have no alternative but to believe in the survival of the soul.
I don't believe the soul is purely one's personality. Emotions and the feelings that emotions produce are also part of a person's inner being, and the soul encompasses all. Whether or not a soul is created, and therefore is capable of being destroyed, I can't say. I don't know.
Chakka, If I'm in any doubt, I prefer to say 'I don't know'. Father Christmas, I think we can be fairly sure, was invented by man. Even his costume was designed, I believe, to enhance an advert for something like Coca Cola. Fairies and elves on the other hand - who knows? Perhaps you should leave your shoes out tonight just in case. :o)
I'm away with the fairies to start dinner now.