over the hill

Years ago, when my youngest son was four years old, he was
enamoured by the Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol. It was
approaching the holiday season and he had watched the Muppet
film version umteen times. One afternoon, as a manor visitor was
leaving, he playfully called out, "Bye, old Scrooge!" This particular
visitor, being none too amused, gave him an icy scowl and hastily
stomped out of the manor. I was mortified.

"Punkin, why did you say that?"

"I thought it would make them laugh."

Well, sadly, this person certainly didn't laugh. But what a different
scenario it might have been, if they had. There is an innocent honesty
in the thoughts and actions of children. Many times they can assess a
certain situation to a tee. The funny thing is, this person was close to
the age I am now. Heavens to murgatroyd, I can't imagine a small
child sizing me up and comparing me, of all people, to Scrooge.

There is something absolute in the old adage, "you are as young as
you feel". Happiness is a choice. There is much to be said, in my little
book, for emotional riches. No matter how far on the other side of the
hill we might be, we can make a choice, like Scrooge finally did, to be
youthful in spirit, bringing warmth and generosity to those around
us.

May you be happy in the life you've chosen.

.

(Alice to Ebeneezer Scrooge)

A Christmas Carol

by

Charles Dickens