What Rudolph taught me
It seems as though Rudolph has been thrown off the sleigh. In current times, some folks cry for the cartoon to be banned, claiming that it’s filled with prejudice and insensitive behaviors. If Rudolph were written today, I might agree.
But it wasn’t.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer was written in 1939 and first hit televisions in 1964. The show should be appreciated in the contextual times it was written.
When I was little, Rudolph was my favorite Christmas show. I loved the bouncing bumble who scared me and then endeared me. I loved the land of misfit toys. I loved the tiny cozy cabin and the terrible storm. I loved the jingle of Santa’s sleigh as he crossed the moon’s path.
But mostly, I loved Rudolph.
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The heart of the story focuses on a character who doesn’t fit in, because he’s different. He’s teased and taunted and ridiculed because of his nose, but also, because he’s an independent thinker who believes in a greater truth than what’s been told. It’s a hero’s journey of perseverance and self-discovery. It’s a story about prejudice. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer helped me understand that being different can and should be championed. Rudolph resonated with me because even at a young age, I understood the inequity and unfairness in the world. Without realizing it, at age 4, I became a champion of social justice.
We all have hidden and not-so-hidden obstacles to overcome. Some folks have harder lots than others. In a world that desperately needs more compassion and understanding, it’s important to fight for freedom for all. At least, that’s what Rudolph taught me.
Carrie Brown-Wolf
Silverthorne
A kudos and a request
I usually write letters to the editor because I’m unhappy about something. That’s true for the second part of my letter. However, I have to congratulate both the town and Vail Resorts for finally coming to a sensible solution to the parking problem. They listened to their constituents and the parking garage will be built with cooperation and in the best location.
The second part of my letter is a request for assistance. I was hit by a woman snowboarder wearing a purple and black jacket. I was wearing a bright red jacket with bright green flowered pants. This occured on Dec. 10, early afternoon on the runout on Monte Cristo above the pitch toward the Independence chair. If anyone witnessed this collision, please contact the Breckenridge Ski Patrol. I have a compressed fracture of my ninth vertebrae and a hairline fracture of my tailbone. The woman who hit me walked away with no injuries. I have lost this amazing season. If you have any information, please help.
Patricia Walker
Breckenridge