I missed this issue when it came out a couple years ago, but on a recent excursion to the comic store, I saw it on the shelf and picked it up. I always enjoy the Hellboy Winter Specials because I love the more mysterious folklore associated with the holidays, as well as winter ghost stories. These are the usual inspirations for the annual release.
This issue contains three short tales:
- The Miser’s Gift
- The Longest Night
- The Beast of Ingleheim
I enjoyed all the tales, but if I had to pick a favorite, I would choose “The Miser’s Gift.” It is a ghost story about a young man who encounters the spirit of a miser, struggling to drag along his sack of money. The young man assists the restless spirit, who in response gives the person a gold coin. The young man then seeks to return the coin to the spirit, claiming:
“You don’t have to pay me. I was doing you a favor. I want to give this back.”
The act of kindness and charity has a healing effect on the spirit, and while the fate of the spirit is left open for the reader to interpret, the implication is that the selfless act of the young man resulted in the tormented soul finally finding peace.
This is such an important message. The spiritual value of unconditional kindness cannot be measured. One seemingly small act can have a rippling effect, which is something I try to keep in mind with all my dealings with others.
I hope this fable has inspired you as much as it did me. May you and your loved ones be blessed. Thanks for stopping by.
Stuff Jeff Reads 
I enjoy your eclectic taste, always discovering the spiritual, cosmic, artistic, healing, loving message in everything you present. Happy holidays to you and your family! Sucks to yer assmar.
LOL – I was wondering when I would get a LOTF reference in one of your comments. Glad you enjoyed the post, Jerry. And yes, I always seek out the inspiring and spiritual in all that I read. To paraphrase a Grateful Dead song, you can be shown the light in the strangest of places, if you look at it right. Thanks for the holiday wishes, and may you and you family have a safe and joyous holiday. Cheers!
Hellboy and Winter go hand in hand eh Jeff? Great stuff as I don’t know this stuff exists so I always look forward to your words on this kind of stuff.
Have a great holidays with your family pal!
All the best!
deKe
Thanks Deke. Always appreciate you taking the time to read my stuff and your kind words. Many blessings to you and your family this holiday and all of 2022.
Peace.
Hi Jeff – this is a perfect post for this time of year. Simple acts of kindness go a long way. I’ve experienced these on both ends and they are very powerful. I hope you are having a wonderful holiday.
Thanks Barb! 😀 Wishing you and your family lots of happiness this holiday season, and may 2022 be a great year for you.