by Brian G. Spare
What does the name “Scrooge” conjure up in your thoughts? No doubt an image of old Ebenezer himself and likely the classic image of Scrooge portrayed by Alasdair Sim… Humbug!… Whether it’s July or December the mere mention of Scrooge reminds us of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” one of the most enduring and endearing Christmas tales.
Ebenezer Scrooge grew up knowing the hardships of life. This experience would come to dominate his thoughts during his youth and the years thereafter. So much so that he lost the young woman to whom he was betrothed because of his blind pursuit of personal wealth. Scrooge became a shrewd man of business providing for his own profit while disregarding the plight of those around him. All that would change one night on Christmas Eve, exactly seven years to the day his business partner Jacob Marley died. That night, a visit from Marley’s ghost and the ghosts of Christmas would change Scrooge forever. From that Christmas on, Ebenezer Scrooge found the joy of laughter in his heart and warmth shared being kind to others. It was said that, of anyone, he knew how to keep Christmas well.
May we keep Christmas well as we hurry about our way this holiday season remembering its true meaning of peace on Earth and goodwill toward all. And so as Tiny Tim, the most humble of Dickens’ characters observed, “God bless Us Every One“.
Merry Christmas
Brian G. Spare 