Today is a special day for fans of Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit, the various Christmas ghosts and Scrooge, both before and after his holiday epiphany.
On Dec. 19, 1843, Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" was published.
Although this magical, wonderful tale of humanity and the holidays is among the most well-known of books, it only saw the light of day thanks to Dickens' personal persistence. And the way it was published was as prophetic as some of the ghostly tales it contains.
Because Dickens was feuding with his publishers, says David Perdue at his website CharlesDickensPage.com, the author financed the publishing of the book himself. He ordered lavish binding, gilt edging and hand-colored illustrations and then priced it at 5 shillings so that everyone could afford it.
Today it likely would have been first issued as an e-book.
Regardless of how you access it, I encourage you to take some time to read it or read it again.
As I noted back in 2006 when I first blogged about the book's publication on this day, the story' is as relevant today as they were centuries ago.
The themes touched upon in "A Christmas Carol" — overworked employees, struggling families, pervasive poverty, greedy businesses — are echoed at Occupy Wall Street gatherings worldwide.
And yet the story's prevailing message of indomitable good will through all the travails gives us hope.
Yes, I am a sap during the holidays. (No comments from the peanut gallery, please!)
But I defy you to read "A Christmas Carol" or watch one if its many film incarnations (the version with George C. Scott is my favorite) and not be moved.
If you aren't, then you truly are, as the cranky Ebenezer Scrooge says before the Christmas ghosts help him learn the real meaning of holiday spirit, a humbug!
Share the season: If you're so inclined, remember those who aren't as fortunate as you are, especially during the holidays.
And your gift could do more than just make you feel better.
You might be able to deduct your charitable donation when you file your taxes.
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