Even those that have never read A Christmas Carol or seen its adaptations often associate the term ‘Scrooge’ with someone who is irritable, greedy, or bitter.  From his famous “Bah, humbug!” to lines like, “Every idiot who goes about with ‘Merry Christmas’ on his lips should be boiled with his own pudding,” Scrooge has established himself as the standard-bearer for discontent, negativity, and cynicism.

Although we all know “a Scrooge,” who was the Scrooge? Ebenezer Scrooge was a miserly narcissist—condescending to his nephew, harsh on his employee, and dismissive of his neighbors. Oh, and he hated Christmas. Yet, he was also a man estranged from his family, alienated by peers in childhood, burdened by a harsh father, and deeply scarred by the deaths of both his sister and his business partner.

Suffering is not a predeterminate of antisocial behavior, but it certainly contributes to the anxiety, fear, and loneliness that define Scrooge’s adult life.  An equitable assessment of Scrooge’s character holds him accountable for his misanthropic existence while acknowledging the significant role trauma has played in shaping him.

While Scrooge’s fictional transformation from malcontent to altruist makes for an uplifting Christmas story, it is unrealistic for us to expect an overnight renewal of ourselves or our neighborhoods. Just as personal transformation requires patience, so too does community revitalization.

The Stewart Center’s work in the Pittsburgh community of southwest Atlanta will not be accomplished by ghosts in the night, rather by building and maintaining enduring partnerships with our neighbors.  The Center has been, and will be, working in the community to advance equitable development for all residents.

During this holiday season, I am grateful for the trust and grace that our neighbors extend to the Stewart Center as we continue to grow as a community development organization.  We invite you to join the movement as we head into 2025.

-Clayton