As I watched the movie “Forrest Gump” for the third time, it brought to memory how life can have many twists and turns. All through the movie Forrest, played by Tom Hanks, is met with obstacles that could have negatively affected his ethical and moral standards. Time after time, Forrest chooses to take the high ground of moral behavior.
Jenny, a childhood friend, is forever on his mind and another constant in the movie. From his time in Vietnam to his civilian life, Forrest Gump seems to always keep his eyes on the prize. When Jenny rejects his marriage proposal, Forest starts running and discovers its psychological effect as an outlet for disappointment and emotional pain. While we continue to face life during a pandemic, we must discover an outlet that will give us peace amid uncertainties.
Forrest Gump had a learning disability, but he did not allow it to impede his morals or behavior, even during the most trying situations. In fact, the movie depicts him as a person who loved all humanity. Right now, we all are going through difficult times with the pandemic that has masked the entire world where we live, work and play. Our days will not always be favorable or to our liking.
This is the time when we must show our resilience to whatever comes before us because of the “twist and turns” that we might face tomorrow. Kelly Clarkson sang a song titled “Stronger.” Some lyrics in the song make good points applicable in life, including “what doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger.”
Remember during these abnormal times, love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without either of them, humanity cannot survive. Only the development of compassion and understanding for others can bring us the tranquility and happiness we all seek in this life. We can only stand strong before people if we discipline ourselves to spend time before God in prayer. This is how to stay effective and finish strong in your life. It also defines who we really are in life’s journey. Be strong through life’s twists and turns, and Never Give Up! Never Give Up! Never Give Up!
By Chaplain Ghosten
chaplain@lhp.net
