The Chains We Forge

On December 19, 1843, a tradition altering book came to life through the hands and mind of Charles Dickens. The book took Victorian England, and eventually the world by storm. It remains in print today. A Christmas Carol. Most of us know the story. A miser, named Ebeneezer Scrooge experiences a transcendental change facilitated by four ghosts or spirits. Recently, I have spent hours considering Scrooges' former partner Jacob Marley, and the invitation Marley leaves each of us.

Jacob Marley - 1843 illustration

Marley is the first of the ghosts to arrive. Scrooge is less interested in Marley, than he is the chain Marley is wrapped in.

"You are fettered," said Scrooge trembling. "Tell me why?"

"I wear the chains I forged in life." replied the Ghost. "I made it link by link, and yard by yard; I girded it on of my own free will, and of my own free will I wore it."

Jacob Marley - 1878 illustration

Somewhere in early autumn Marley's explanation of the chain wrapped itself around me. As the days rolled by, and the phrases danced in my soul, I realized, we each forge a chain. "Link by link, and yard by yard." A chain we never meant to create. Like Marley, we silently wrap the yards around ourselves. We carry the links into every aspect of our lives. This idea surprised me. It led to some serious soul searching.

In my searching, I realized our chains are ours to judge. Perhaps we like them. We may feel safe and empowered with them. Or perhaps, we hadn't even noticed them. Or maybe, we like, Marley would like to be free of them.

As December darkens as it is her job to do, what better time to consider what chains we have forged. Then like Scrooge, we can decide if we really want to keep them. In the next thirty days, as the world moves toward light, we can skip the self-defeating New Years Resolutions. Instead, we can allow our souls to be led by the spirits of our past, present, and future dreams allowing ourselves to release the heavy self-forged chain we no longer need.

If time permits, wrap yourself in a cozy blanket, make a warm beverage, and commune with your best nature. You deserve to honor and celebrate you, this holiday season.

Happy Winter Solstice Time to You.