The true meaning of life

Christmas Carol, written by Charles Dickens, was published in 1843. It’s a well-known novel and it has been translated into different kinds of languages. Dickens wanted to convey the message that only the one who maintains kindness and appreciation for others will be happier than those who emphasize self-interest too much. His sources of the story stemmed from the humiliating experiences of his childhood as well as his sympathy for the poor. The story happens on the most meaningful holiday, Christmas, when people celebrate and enjoy feasts together. At Christmas, everyone is soaked in the pleasant atmosphere. However, such atmosphere of mirth and gaiety can’t shatter the faith of the main character, Ebenezer Scrooge, who thinks Christmas is only a holiday to make more profits on business.

There are no better words to describe this old mister but miserable, stingy and lonely. “Christmas is humbug,” which is the sentence Scrooge says all the time. Everyone thinks he is a mean person who just busts his but every day to make more profits. However, during the supernatural visit by Jacob Marley, his late partner, Scrooge is admonished against selfishness and informed that three spirits will come to him the following few days.

The Ghost of Christmas Past shows up first and tries to remind Scrooge of the delightful memories which he was through before. The death of his sister and the leaving of his beautiful fiancée influence him the most. Due to the strong depression following those events, his attitude to life turned bitter and resentful. Nevertheless, Scrooge was very touched by seeing those scenes. The other day, the Ghost of Christmas Present shows him the bad situation that his coworker was in. His coworker, Bob Cratchit, lives in a shabby house with his family. His son, Tim, is always cheerful and hopeful despite his physical incapability. Astonished by seeing that, Scrooge regrets the way he treats Cratchit. He even wants to make a compliment to Tim. At last, the Ghost of Christmas Yet to come shows him the death of himself. Feeling regret and sorrow, Scrooge reflects on what he has done and makes up his mind to become a friendly and enthusiastic person.

Reading this novel, I deeply realize that money can’t replace substantial happiness. In other words, wealth is less important than happiness. I used to be selfish and stingy; I did not know the true meanings of sharing. My mother taught me that without true happiness, one is like a body without spirits. I did not realize the importance of sharing until junior high school. Aware of my friends’ indifference, I learned to share my affection and love with others. Consequently, I become far happier than I used to be. Moreover, I learn that people ought to share joys and sorrows with others. It is more blessed to give than to receive. If we are willing to love others, then we will be loved in return.

Most of us confront many problems in our daily lives. Some people just run away while others manage to solve those problems. We should learn the spirit of Scrooge to face the problems bravely. It is cliched to say that success comes from hard work. However, escape will not make the problems disappear. Confronting them, then we will find that we are getting closer to our resolution.

This novel definitely inspires people. Scrooge not only acknowledges his own disadvantages but also endeavors to become adorable. I wanted to improve my bad habits, but I did not put it into practice. After witnessing the brave alternative of Scrooge, I made up my mind to realize it.

I believe the meaning of life depends on helping, sharing and caring. After reading the experiences of Scrooge, I confirmed this idea more and more. I am convinced that once we change our perspectives on things, we will find that things around us become more agreeable. We certainly cannot change the world or cease the time; however, we can cherish what we have now. Though we do not know what will happen next seconds, we can, with some efforts; to make every second to be the best moment.