I have a confession.
Now don't judge too harshly...being the avid film addict that I am...
up until this year, sadly...
I had never seen It's A Wonderful Life. I know, huge gasps are loudly expelling as you read this. I have been completely un-American. This movie is like Christmas gold.
But in my defense, a two and a half hour movie with no singing, dancing, animation, or slap-stick comedy was never very appealing to a child during the holiday season. As an adult I have known for some time that it is one of the most beloved Christmas movies of all time, but any time that it aired I would catch it somewhere in the middle and I absolutely will not watch a movie unless I see it from the very beginning. This year I was determined to watch classic Christmas movies and dvr'd the film so I could watch it after the kiddos had gone to sleep one night.
No shocker here, but yes, the movie made me cry. It is truly cinematic gold. The tale of George Bailey, who regrets never living out his dreams and secret aspirations of glory, can touch all of us as we question the choices we have made in life. The beauty of this film is witnessing the turmoil of this man who had the integrity and heart to make the right decisions, not the easy ones. Who did what needed to be done in sacrifice of his own opportunities for money or fame. In the end he finds that he is rich beyond compare with the love and gratitude from all of those around him. WOW! I think we all can learn from George Bailey.
As the year slowly winds down and the celebrations towards a new year begin to unfold, I am pondering things in my life right now. What will the future hold for me? What life changes need to be made? How have I affected the lives of those around me? Have I been a good person? Have I shown enough love?
Oh I know all of the New Year's resolutions are about to be decided... and the fitness industry wants all of us to join gyms and try to fulfill our narcissistic tendencies...I am just as guilty as anyone on that count. But growth and life experiences have changed my focus to more spiritual healing. I want to resolve to be my best self. Simple. Do what is right, and not what is easy. The truth is, I have been trying to run away from egotistical, bad behavior as I was ashamed of my own part in it. But pointing the finger at bad behavior does nothing to change it. You have to DO better. You have to BE better. So learning from George Bailey...fame and glory aren't real. Relationships are real. The way we treat each other is real.
You may never know if you have changed someone's life in a good way or not, but it will certainly give you a sense of peace knowing that you tried.
Like Frank Capra's epic film, my New Year's resolution is to live a wonderful life. I hope that we can all do better in the new year. Much love to all.
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