My Dear Friend of Democracy,
I saw A Christmas Carol of Charles Dickens the other day at a theatre in Kiel, Germany.
You probably know the story.
On Christmas Eve, Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by a series of ghosts, starting with his old business partner, Jacob Marley. The three spirits which follow, the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Christmas Present and Christmas Yet to Come, show Scrooge how his mean behaviour has affected those around him. At the end of the story he is relieved to discover that there is still time for him to change and we see him transformed into a generous and kind-hearted human being.
✊ The most important lesson of A Christmas Carol to me is that we are all able to change. For the better. Become more generous, warm-hearted, and compassionate. Towards a happier life. Because this is what democracy is all about: that we are able to lead a fulfilling life. And, ideally, to help others do the same.
See you in Democracy,
Johannes
📸 Kiel, Germany / 03 December 2024