How The Grinch Stole Christmas!

How The Grinch Stole Christmas! reminds us of the true meaning of the holiday. Recent film adaptations have expanded on the tale, delving further into the Grinch’s motivations for wrecking havoc. But all this context can’t really improve on Dr. Seuss’s beloved story.

Does it really matter if the green guy was picked on as a child? Do we need to know that he always spent Christmas Day alone? Trying to make us feel bad for him sorta dilutes the simplicity of the original. No one’s saying the Grinch doesn’t have a point. But he’s not the only one who's experienced trauma or had a bad day.

We all know how hectic this season can be. Just trying to make it home feels like an impossible task. And certain traditions can be a little much (if I never hear All I Want For Christmas Is You again, it will be too soon). 

There are many good reasons to act like a Grinch, but what interests me more is how the residents of Whoville can still join hands and sing in the midst of their ransacked town. I’m sure each one had setbacks while shopping for gifts, hanging those decorations, and shoveling a path to work every morning. Nevertheless, joy was their foundation. Witnessing their unyielding spirit, the Grinch’s heart grew three sizes.

Turns out Dr. Seuss based the Grinch on himself. One morning, he looked in the mirror and noticed a sour countenance on his face. He then wrote the book to see if he “could rediscover something about Christmas that obviously I'd lost.” 

If you’ve lost your Christmas spirit, don't forget that it’s not about the presents, or the tree, or the delicious food. It’s about good news for everyone, everywhere. However you choose to celebrate, remember to keep kindness and joy at the center.