Today I received a work email from someone name Ebenezer...which spurred the thought, "hmmm....you really don't see that name used so much anymore." Charles Dickens probably didn't realize the stereotypical impact of cementing...nay...welding the cold-hearted and selfish attributes found in his character Ebenezer Scrooge in the story, The Christmas Carol to the unfortunate soul of an individual with the same name. I imagine when the story was gaining popularity; children across the world were experiencing an outbreak of ruthless hazing that come from their peers in all varieties of educational systems and from various societies as well. How unfortunate would be a child whose parents were unfamiliar with the story in naming him Ebenezer, only to find that The Christmas Carol was added to school curriculums across the world! Even today and even with a huge transformation experienced by the character in the story, anyone who shows any semblance of disdain towards Christmas will be labeled a "Scrooge"...
Over the years, the generations have learned that this name, "Ebenezer" does not carry enough appeal to outweigh the automatic label placed on the bearer. Quite puzzling is the thought that a parent may lean towards "Adolph" (Hitler) before even considering the potential link to "Mr. Scrooge".
So while the email received today is proof that SOMEONE SOMEWHERE has decided to roll the dice with the stereotype-riddled name, I doubt that this will start a trend. Without any forethought, I questioned whether the person sending me this message is a cheapskate who works in a small office with no heating or A/C and who is hated in his community for his ruthless behavior.
So may you rest in peace "Ebenezer"....sleep well.
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