Claire often refers to me as a curmudgeon. When she first started doing that, I thought it was a compliment. But then, after a while, I looked it up…. I’m pretty sure it wasn’t a compliment.
Here’s what I found:
Curmudgeon n
1) archaic: a crusty, ill-tempered, churlish old man
2) modern; anyone who hates hypocrisy and pretense and has the temerity to say so; anyone with the habit of pointing out unpleasant facts in an engaging and humorous manner.
I guess that describes me somewhat — maybe it’s not a compliment to be called curmudgeon, but maybe it’s not necessarily bad either. After all, we’d fall prey to every hare-brained scheme going if it weren’t for grumpy old men (and women.) I guess I should mention — since I had to research the subject — women can be curmudgeons — the word describes a unique kind of personality and isn’t limited by the physical attributes of the person. Of course, women aren’t usually labeled curmudgeons — they get categorized as an old spinsters, battle-axes, or old biddys.
But anyhow, today, January 29, is Curmudgeons Day. So you may disagree with all the curmudgeons in your life every other day, but today — on Curmudgeons Day, you should honor them.
Grumpy characters are interesting and multidimensional. Just think about the Muppets… we love Oscar the Grouch, Statler and Waldorf (the old men who sit in the balcony and mock whatever is happening onstage) and people like Walter Matthau and Andy Rooney.
In fact, this day is observed on January 29th because that’s the birthday of one of America’s most beloved curmudgeons — W.C. Fields.
One thing you have to say about curmudgeons — they understand their unlikeability and they still stay true to themselves. Changing to please others is overrated.
So you can honor us curmudgeons if you choose, but today we’ll raise a glass to our own authentic selves.
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