MAN’S SEARCH FOR MEANING (CONT’D)

Last week, we examined a few scenes from “Front of the Class” and a few lessons gleaned, especially as it relates to critical thinking. This week, we would be looking at the movie, “Tuesdays with Morrie”, and examining some major highlights from the movie. The movie is quite exhilirating to watch with its profound and thought-provoking lessons on life, love, and the human condition. The movie portrays the real-life story of Mitch and his former college professor, Morrie Schwartz, who is dying from ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis). Via their weekly meetings on Tuesdays, Morrie imparts invaluable wisdom to Mitch, teaching him important lessons. Some of these lessons are as follows;

1. The Value of Human Connection: Morrie highlights the value of interpersonal relationships and the importance of human connection. In today’s fast-paced society, we frequently ignore spending quality time with our loved ones in favor of our busy schedules. The movie “Tuesdays with Morrie” serves as a reminder to value the connections we have, make time for the people who are important to us, and show them our affection and respect. As a poignant reminder that love and connection are the real jewels of life, Morrie’s everlasting faith in the importance of relationships serves as a moving example.
2. The Meaning of Life: Morrie muses on the purpose of existence as he nears death. He exhorts Mitch to ponder the crucial issues in life, such as: What is really important in life? A life not reflected upon is not worth living, is a popular saying which should guide n individual’s approach to life.
3. Accepting Mortality: Mitch and Morrie are forced to face their mortality as a result of Morrie’s terminal sickness. Morrie handles his passing with dignity and acceptance, using it as a chance to think back on his life and impart his knowledge to Mitch. He teaches us that death is a natural part of life, and that we should accept it and live our lives to the fullest rather than being afraid of it. We are motivated to overcome our worries and live each day as if it were our last by Morrie’s bravery in the face of death.
4. The Value of Self-Reflection “Tuesdays with Morrie” places a strong emphasis on the value of introspection and self-reflection. Mitch is urged by Morrie to think on his choices and behaviors, evaluate his thoughts and feelings, and look inward. He places a strong emphasis on the value of cultivating self-awareness and getting to know oneself better. Morrie’s teachings remind us of the significance of self-reflection in our personal growth and self-improvement journey.
5. Forgiveness: The movie explores the idea of forgiveness as Mitch struggles with his past regrets and feelings of guilt. From his chats with Morrie, Mitch discovers that holding onto resentments and grudges only causes him to feel burdened and that forgiveness is the only way to go on and heal. Morrie’s teachings on forgiveness highlight the power of letting go of bitterness and embracing forgiveness as a means to find peace and healing.
6. The Need for Mindfulness: Morrie embodies the practice of mindfulness, being fully present in the moment and savoring the beauty of life. He teaches Mitch the importance of being mindful and paying attention to the little things in life that often go unnoticed. Morrie’s lessons on mindfulness serve as a reminder to slow down, be present, and appreciate the present moment, rather than getting lost in the worries of the past or the uncertainties of the future.
7. The Value of Gratitude: Morrie’s unwavering gratitude for life, despite his illness, is a powerful lesson in itself. This shows why he was very intentional about imparting the lessons he had gleaned from life to Mitch. There is a Yoruba adage which says, “E ni to ba mo nu ro, a mo pe daa” which means, it is the one who is capable of thinking that is capable of giving thanks. Hence, carefully evaluating one’s life and gratitude go hand in hand.

In conclusion, it is impossible to see the movie, “Tuesdays with Morrie” without appreciating the need to value human connection, constantly re-evaluate one’s life and life’s meaning, understand forgiveness, be mindful of the little things in life and be grateful.