From Brat to Brave - A Lesson from Dawn Treader
In C.S. Lewis's The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, the unpleasant and self-centered Eustace Scrubb is forced to confront his flaws. Eustace is a whiny, greedy, and generally disagreeable boy. He complains constantly, bullies Lucy and Edmund, and thinks only of his own comfort and desires.
But when Eustace turns into a dragon everything changes. This painful and terrifying experience strips him of his human form, forcing him to see himself as others see him – a monstrous, hoarding creature.
It is only through the intervention of Aslan, who peels away his dragon skin layer by painful layer, that Eustace is restored to his human form. This symbolic act represents the painful but necessary process of shedding his old, selfish self.
Through Eustace we all can learn several crucial lessons:
- Humility: We all must acknowledge our flaws and accept help. Our true strength lies not in outward power but in inner Christ-like character and the willingness to be humble. We often need the support and guidance of others to overcome our shortcomings.
- Empathy and Consideration for Others: When we are selfish, we often disregard the feelings of those around us. Friendships are to be valued. Cultivating empathy involves actively trying to understand others' feelings and perspectives. This leads to more positive relationships (loving others) and a greater sense of community, mirroring Eustace's eventual integration into the Dawn Treader crew.
- The Importance of Inner Character Over Outward Appearance: While a dragon, Eustace is monstrous despite potentially retaining some human thoughts. True identity and value lie within. Being good is not about external appearances or possessions but about one's actions, attitudes, and willingness to grow.
Thankfully, like the characters in the novels, we have our own Aslan - Jesus – who gives us new life and the Holy Spirit to empower us to overcome sin and selfishness—and be able to love and serve God and others. We too can go from brat to brave.
