After 38 years, I finally understand what I was missing all along. Having never watched the Christmas classic, "It's a Wonderful Life", I had no idea what all the hype was about. Settling down into the couch with some dearly loved friends, I anticipated what has now become a quintessential holiday experience--and it was!
Yes, it was cheesy and melodramatic at points, but the overall message of the movie outshines all of that. Without spoiling it for anyone, let me suggest to anyone who also hasn't, to make it a point to watch it this year.
I walked away reflecting on my own wonderful life--something that the ladies I was with that night and I also took time to do mid-movie. It was so sweet to hear each dear friend telling just a bit about what makes up their wonderful life. Pictures and mementos of husbands, children, family and friends topped the list. And as tears glazed our eyes, we each nodded in understanding and agreement as sentiments reflecting perfectly imperfect lives were shared.
I left contemplating the intricate way in which God weaves together our lives... the people, the choices, the seasons both triumphant and trying...and I thought of this life void of me and wondered to myself, "have I left enough of a lasting imprint to have made a difference?"
I thought too of the names and faces who make up my world. I thought of their words of encouragement, times spent just breathing and being together, silly times, simple gestures of love, and acts of selfless service. I thought of times when their God-breathed prayers lifted me from dark and isolating seasons and gave me hope when I was at the edge of my own bridge. And I gave thanks for the undeniable evidence of impact they've left.
And I think of the future, unsure of what it holds, but certain it's full of goodness and almost as if on cue, the old familiar Louis Armstrong tune begins to pour out of my grateful soul....I smile contently, and I think to myself, "what a wonderful world."
(Go ahead...enjoy it here)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E2VCwBzGdPM
