Scrooge - A Metaphor for Change

Recently, I heard a question raised about one’s favorite Christmas movie. I thought for a moment, and immediately, my mind went to Scrooge, the original black and white classic based on the the beloved novella by Charles Dickens. As a child, I was mesmerized by the dreams of the crotchety, old Ebenezer. The Ghost of Christmas Past showed Mr. Scrooge the delight of his childhood. The Ghost of Christmas Present was also quite celebratory while revealing to the bitter Ebenezer the consequences of his self-imposed isolation. The final part of the dream was the most frightening to me. The Ghost of Christmas Future appeared to be absent of any human qualities which looking back was a stroke of genius from those who created the movie. The portrayal of the Ghost of Christmas Future was a perfect symbol for warning the rigid Mr. Scrooge of a dire future if he remained on the narrow path he had taken.

Ebenezer Scrooge is a perfect example of the ability to get “UnStuck” at any age and under any circumstances. I do not know if this was the brilliant Mr. Dickens’ intentions when he penned his novella, but the theme is loud and clear. The stingy, negative Ebenezer needed to reckon his final days on earth, and as we know, it was up to him.

Yes, it is entertaining and absorbing as we watch the loyal, diligent Mr. Cratchit request a reprieve from work to enjoy Christmas Day with his beloved family. We view with heartbreak as the family worries about their young tiny Tim. Finally, as we observe with delight, Ebenezer awakens realizing he is still alive and has a chance to alter his wayward approach to life.

What about viewing this movie or reading the novella through a stronger lens? Isn’t this a perfect metaphor for change? During this holiday season, if you believe that you or others are incapable of change, just think about Mr. Dickens’ ageless message. Please do not say it is just a book or movie. With the fantasy of the Christmas ghosts, reality is loud and clear in this remarkable story. If an older, disgruntled miser is capable of becoming “UnStuck,” anyone is. Will change be easy? Of course not! Must it be practiced repeatedly? Absolutely! Will one falter back to old ways at times. Yes, but remember, we are talking about behavior. Everyone can lose weight on a diet, but that is the less rigorous part. Sustaining the change is much more challenging which is why you need to exercise a habit on a regular basis.

During this holiday spirit of giving and reflecting, take a journey deep within you and explore the question, “Am I being the best I can be?” If you answer yes, hopefully, you recognize that this position is not static and must be re-examined over and over. If you answer in the negative, no problem. As old Ebenezer displays, as long as we have life, it is never too late to get “UnStuck” and begin to make healthy changes. You don’t have to wait until the New Year. In fact, if you begin now, imagine Charles Dickens smiling at you from afar.

Merry Christmas to those who celebrate, and for those who do not, I hope it is a merry day! Happy New Year! May this year bring prosperity and positive change in whatever way is healthy for you so that you can or will continue to “Stop Depriving The World of You.”