It’s a Wonderful Life

Ever since my earliest Christmases, I have loved the music, the kindness that seemed more prevalent during this season than at any other time of the year, the smell of pine that permeated our home, and, of course, Christmas movies. My favorite film shown at this time of year is, It’s a Wonderful Life.

As as a child, I loved that the angel received his wings at the end. Later, I loved that George sees how much better the world of those around him is because he is in it. I think it made me feel that everyone has a purpose, everyone affects others in some way that they perhaps do not perceive, but if absent, all would be different, not as good.

As an adult who has felt the hopelessness that carried George Bailey to a bridge to end his life without a thought to even the woman who gave him her life and those of their children, It’s a Wonderful Life is a reminder to take a step back from the edge. You do not know who you have affected, are affecting or will affect for good. You do not know how your absence will change the course of someone else’s life. Your presence matters, even if you do not feel it and do not care. When living for myself is a burden, it helps to remember that message from It’s a Wonderful Life.

It is a wonderful life.