Lessons Gained from Experience
The PAST…
The PRESENT…
The FUTURE…
What valuable lessons do we gain at different stages of our life's journey? As I get older, I realize with a greater understanding that our experiences are wisdom–wisdom comes from experiences. By embracing a process that combines learned knowledge, foresight, and continuous improvement, we are empowered to navigate our journey confidently, which propels us forward. It is a transformative process. Currently, in the PRESENT, we find ourselves amid the holiday season. Holidays bring a whole lot of hustle and bustle. Part of this season includes watching famous TIMELESS CLASSICS, including Charles Dicken's A Christmas Carol, Writer Philip Van Doren Stern and Director Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life, and Dr. Suess’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Here, we meet three iconic characters known for their harmful and selfish behavior. However, there are valuable lessons that we can learn from them, which help us to reflect on the past and grow ourselves towards a brighter future as individuals who are more conscientious and impactful in society. Let's take a closer look at each character and the lessons they teach us…
Ebenezer Scrooge from A Christmas Carol starts as a bitter and miserly character but undergoes a powerful transformation throughout the story. What can we learn from him? We learn about the power of redemption and the possibility of positive change. No matter how ingrained our negative traits may seem, his transformation shows us that it’s never too late to become a better person and to prioritize compassion and kindness over material wealth. This reminds us to be mindful of others’ struggles and to lend a helping hand.
REDEMPTION. EMPATHY AND KINDNESS. RELATIONSHIPS.
The Grinch from How the Grinch Stole Christmas initially enters the scene as a grumpy and isolated character, but he, too, undergoes a transformation. What can we learn from him? We learn the importance of forgiveness and letting go of resentment. His heart grows three sizes when he learns to forgive others, bringing him inner peace and healing. An inner peace that does not come from material possessions as he thought. The Grinch realizes that stealing Christmas presents doesn't bring him joy. On the contrary, joy explodes through his ability to embrace the spirit of giving. This act of giving brings joy to both the giver and the receiver.
FORGIVENESS. MATERIAL POSSESSIONS. GIVING.
Mr. Potter from It’s a Wonderful Life is a wealthy and influential character who represents greed and selfishness. What can we learn from him? Although he doesn't experience a transformation like Scrooge or the Grinch, his character serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of using power responsibly and ethically. Mr. Potter prioritizes his interest above the needs of the community. This lack of integrity teaches us the value of honesty and fairness, even when faced with temptation or personal gain. Drawing our eyes to the community reveals a community that overcomes Mr. Potter's suppression. As the community's ability to bond strengthens, the society builds and grows. He is ultimately teaching the lesson of helping one another.
UNCHECKED POWER. INTEGRITY. COMMUNITY SUPPORT.
All three characters teach us essential lessons. Initially, we view Ebeneezer Scrooge, the Grinch, and Mr. Potter as negative characters; they provide valuable lessons that can help us become more compassionate, forgiving, and community-oriented individuals. By learning from their PAST mistakes and transformations, we can strive in the PRESENT to create a better world for ourselves and those around us while delivering this experienced wisdom to the FUTURE.
"I will honor Christmas in my heart and try to keep it all the year. I will live in the Past, the Present, and the Future. The Spirits of all Three shall strive within me. I will not shut out the lessons that they teach!" - Ebenezer Scrooge.
