Growing Up Well

At our Thanksgiving party this year, we played a little game in which everyone answered a dozen questions about their favorite things in life.  Then we read them one at a time and tried to guess who fit with the answers given.  One of the questions was “What is your favorite movie?”  Being a movie buff, I gave it some serious consideration then chose “It’s a Wonderful Life.”

Tonight my son asked to watch it, since I have talked about it for years, but we have never gotten around to watching it.  We started it tonight and will finish it later this week.

I can’t say enough about this film.  It’s well-written, well-acted, and well-filmed.  But more importantly, it strikes a chord — several chords — deep in my soul, every time I watch it.  Most importantly, it makes me want to be a better man and to live my life as well as I can for my friends, family, and community. Deep down, I want to be counted in the ranks of the George Baileys of the world.  And if I can’t, then I want my son to get there upon my shoulders.

“It’s a Wonderful Life” should be required viewing for every young person growing up.  Anyone over the age of ten should see this movie with their parents, grandparents, or any adult who cares enough to explain what’s going on as the film rolls.  If you haven’t seen it in a few years, do so.  And bring a kid along for the ride.

This movie says it all about growing up well.  It does not hide the truth that life is hard, and it’s even harder for those who choose to serve others.  It teaches just about every character trait you would want to see in a young man or woman.  In no way is it an easy life — just ask George Bailey — but it’s worth it all.

Here’s a fun little trivia game for lovers of this movie…Click here