Do Better, and Grow Better, and Be Better

I continue to be impressed with the depth of the themes in George MacDonald’s writing. After becoming so enthralled with The Princess and the Goblin I just had to start The Princess and Curdie. Another grandmother conversation serves as inspiration for today’s post. Grandmother told Curdie, “Remember, then, that whoever does not mean good is always in danger of harm” (p. 23). Curdie was encouraged to remain steadfast in his good intentions and to navigate the complexities of his adventures with a focus on what is right and just.

I really had to ponder the meaning of the interaction above. The statement emphasized the idea that intentions matter deeply was a very important concept being used as a through line throughout the entire story. The grandmother’s wisdom reinforces the notion that while one might face dangers in the pursuit of good, the real threat comes from those who choose evil, ultimately leading to their own downfall.

After this lengthy conversation, Curdie got the point the grandmother was trying to make. He said, voice was gentler even than before. “I was doing the wrong of never wanting or trying to be better” (p. 24). Later, the great grandmother replied, “When people don’t care to be better they must be doing everything wrong” (p. 25). Wow, read that again: “When people don’t care to be better they must be doing everything wrong.” We all need to care about getting better.

The grandmother left Curdie with one other great point during this interaction. She said, “Do better, and grow better, and be better” (p. 25). Macdonald created a drop the mic moment with this. We need to do, grow, and be better.

Byron's Babbles