A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens features a character well deserving of our emulation in the new year. He is unsung, appreciated only by Bob Cratchit. I refer to Fred, Scrooge's nephew. For it is Fred who remains ultimately optimistic, forgiving and loyal to his uncle, a miser who tells Fred he would rather see him in hell than dine with him, humbug. Still, Fred remembers Bob's family and asks about Tiny Tim. In Christmas future, he inquires and expresses freely his sorrow at Bob's grief and sends regards to Mrs. Cratchit. In the original text, Fred says "If I can be of any service to you, in any way, come to me," handing over his card. And when the contrite Scrooge enters Fred's home, reborn on Christmas Day, Fred takes his hand, shaking it heartily, fully accepting and welcoming this estranged relative into his home with no recriminations. May it be said of us, and all of us, that we offered hospitality, service and forgiveness in 2016.