A decade ago, I was inspired by the Ghost of Christmas Present. This changed how I saw Ebenezer Scrooge and the message of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Since then, I have pondered Scrooge’s story and watched many versions of it on screen and stage. I have come to the conclusion that there is still much to learn from Scrooge today..
21st Century Scrooge
The spirit of the unredeemed Scrooge can still be found in the marketplace, town square, and even some houses of worship. Just sit in a board room, meeting room, breakroom, or coffee shop and listen. You will likely hear the bold and sometimes subtle words of Scrooge – words rooted in pride, positioning, power, and penny pinching.
When I closely read Dickens’ writing, I learned a lot about Scrooge’s transformation. Can I be like him at the end of the story – to become “as good a friend, as good a master, as good a man” in this world? Am I brave enough, like Ebenezer, to honestly and humbly examine my past, present, and potential future in order to change for the better? What steps can I take to transform my life?
Can I be like Scrooge at the end of the story – to become “as good a friend, as good a master, as good a man” in this world? … What steps can I take to have a transformative life?
Live in the Present
The Ghost of Christmas Present’s words, “Come and know me better man!”, still hold true today. Scrooge learned a lot from his visit to the past and the future, but the message from his time in the present was more meaningful for his transformation.
Scrooge’s character was shaped by his past trauma, pain, and failures, as well as his concerns and aspirations for the future. However, his concern for the future was likely driven by a fear of scarcity rather than his own plans for success. His aspirations were a way to soothe his fears and maintain control over his own destiny. But over time, the weight of the past and his preoccupation with the future prevented him from truly living in the present, which is the only part of life that is tangible.
How many of us judge ourselves or others based on past failures or accomplishments, using them to justify our actions in the present? How many of us let our fears, goals, plans, and desires for the future distract us from being fully present for our loved ones, colleagues, or those who rely on us for leadership?
The present is where we experience what is real and where true healing from the past occurs, as no one can escape pain in life. It is also where we build the moral character needed to shape and achieve our dreams for tomorrow.
The Ghost of Christmas Present is calling us, saying “Come and know me better!”. Living in the present can transform you, just like it did for Ebenezer. Take time for others, listen, show compassion, and have interest in their life. Take time for yourself, be present, and enjoy the gift of life today. Choose a path like Scrooge, who was a man on the path to die in chains but was transformed to become known as a good friend, a good master, and a good man. Be like Scrooge, who allowed himself to be transformed by the spirit of Christmas and knew how to keep it well. Merry Christmas and God bless us every one! © 2023
Be A Scrooge This Christmas! – My Original 2012 Inspired Writing
Be a Scrooge this Christmas – Poor Ebenezer, his name forever associated with “Bah Humbug” and Christmas drudgery. The message of the traditional holiday classic has been summarized to the simple phrase “Don’t be a Scrooge”. But shouldn’t we all strive to be a Scrooge at Christmas? Do we forget the end of the story which reveals the timeless message? Scrooge’s heart was revealed to him. He saw the wretchedness within his own soul created by a lifetime of self-indulgence, greed, arrogance, and pride. Moved by this revelation he chose to be transformed into a new man with a soul motivated by the spirit of generosity, joy, love, and good will towards men. So be a Scrooge. Be transformed this Christmas by letting the spirit of Christ enter your heart and home. © 2012
