SEPTEMBER 4, 2020
The 1994 movie “Forrest Gump” is one of my favorite of all time. Watching Tom Hanks in earlier comedy roles was all I needed to follow along with empathy as a simple-minded but good-hearted person (Forrest) becomes involved in historically significant events by chance. Forrest is your perfect hero. Someone who knows right from wrong but doesn’t need the accolades nor does he understand all of the positive impact he made on the lives of others. Of course, his famous line in the movie when others are putting him down is; “Stupid is as stupid does.” Forest loved his mother and took her words to heart (Honor and respect for others) when he would always bring up; “Momma used to say,” followed by something profound. I think of this movie in these terms: If you really listen to people who are important in your life, you become someone important or significant yourself. Forrest always had someone to tell him what to do. From an early age, Forrest always listened to his momma and became disciplined in his principles and values. Is this where you are today or are you on a journey with no guidance?
Who are YOU listening to today? I hope, if your parents are still alive, you are listening to their wisdom? (Try including God here) They all care more for you than anyone and they just might have the right answers for your life. If this is not the case, who are seeking to help you discern what is right and wrong and what to believe in this world? Too many times we tend to judge people on a first impression. Yes, you might be correct in your thinking. But shouldn’t you really judge them on their actions and not their words? “Stupid is as stupid does.” (UGH! This reminds me of politics)
I often run into grown men and women who still carry around an early wound from parents or close friends. These wounds come in the form of; “You are stupid.”” You are a Loser.” You can’t do that.” Often times, it is reflection of the negative life by the giver. If the giver has lived a negative, self-deprecating life, they may just be passing it on to those they love the most without even understanding. This is where wisdom, self-mastery, courage, and love come into the picture.
- What is the wise thing to say to your child or friends? Then are you living up to your word? (This reminds me of “The Cat’s in the Cradle”)
- Are you stupid as well and you just want to put the other person down or mirror their comments to make yourself look good? (“You do too” comes to mind) (Two Fools don’t make it right)
- Do you have the courage to stand up to negative, volatile, rude, self-centered people or are you going to sit there and take it? (Remember, maybe they missed a few hugs when they were kids)
- How much love are you giving and receiving. Hopefully, you give more than you receive because until that happens, you will never feel satisfied or fulfilled.
I want to close by saying that each one of you reading this week’s remark is someone special just as Forrest Gump was special. You bring value to others and impact them in a way you may not understand. Name them and share your wisdom, courage and love with them. Tell them that you love them in more ways than just saying. “I love you.” I can guarantee you, your heart will be filled with joy.
Elevator Guy