I’m no Grinch, but I like Max. Max was the Grinch’s little dog. OK, I love Christmas. I don’t argue about keeping the “Christ” in Christmas, everyone can have their own religion, but I do believe in Christmas spirit. And yes I do believe in Christmas magic. The idea of that spirit can start today and continue far after the holidays if we let it. Today instead of going “all spiritual” let’s have some fun with the words from The Grinch Who Stole Christmas.
“You’re a mean one, Mr. Grinch
You really are a heel
You’re as cuddly as a cactus
And as charming as an eel, Mr. Grinch
You’re a bad banana
With a greasy black peel
Just face the music
You’re a monster, Mr. Grinch, yes, you are
Your heart’s an empty hole
Your brain is full of spiders
You’ve got garlic in your soul, Mr. Grinch
I wouldn’t touch you
With a thirty nine and a half foot pole
No one’s denying
You’re a vile one, Mr. Grinch
You have termites in your smile
You have all the tender sweetness
Of a seasick crocodile, Mr. Grinch
Given the choice between you
I’d take the seasick crocodile”
Personally, in the movie while I like how the Grinch’s heart eventually grows three sizes that day and he finds redemption and forgiveness and carves the roast beast, I like Max most. The little dog pulls the sleigh, with antlers much too big for his little body. All along Max had been the Grinch’s companion even before the Grinch found his heart and compassion. While the Who’s down in their little town awaited the Grinch’s wrath Max stood by his flawed master’s side. And eventually as happens to all good dogs he was invited to eat a fine holiday meal. Happy holidays to all the dogs (and cats) who support their masters as they strive to be better humans.
