DreamGirls and Pursuit of Happyness Teach Us All a Valuable Life Lesson

Movie goers all around the globe filed in to see both DreamGirls and Pursuit of Happyness over the holiday season because of the wonderful messages that radiated out of each preview before an opening. The themes of the movie even translated to the reality of others such as the multi-talented Jennifer Hudson. After seeing the film and enjoying how each character had to overcome obstacles, both movies gave people a feeling that they too can achieve their dreams. All of us go through challenges on a day to day basis that can sometimes break the spirit we have come to build. Though our faith may be withstanding, words like rejection or failure can sneak up on us and make things harder to bear. I was reminded not long ago by my pastor that failure is not an ending. This phrase should be repeated over and over and embedded into our minds.

Failure is not an ending.

Failing an academic course when you felt you tried your best, not being chosen for a job position you wanted, or not being where you want to be in life can give off a sense of hopelessness. This message can apply to all areas of life, not just education and career purposes, but in life as well. Relationships can sometimes fail, making one or both partners seem inadequate. Families sometimes grow apart and the sadness of that can affect your perceptions of togetherness. Friends that you may have thought had your best interests at heart disappoint you.

We can all relate to one or all of those scenarios, but what can make the difference is in your determination that your best is yet to come.

Many times, people around you can try to influence the way you perceive yourself and any goals that you make in life. Some tell you that you are not good enough to be a doctor, or lawyer, or teacher. My pastor would tell you that sometimes, people want to discourage you from doing something great just because they cannot do it. I personally feel that this message helps me to get over any rejections or feelings of failure I have had by looking to the future with optimism. It doesn't matter what others say about my dreams. As long as I know that my dreams can become a reality then no one can take that from me.

However, think of the loss this world could have if you stopped and gave up your own dream. For that matter, think of the losses the world would have if people like Oprah Winfrey, Bill Gates, Fred Smith, or Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. decided to quit and not follow their dreams. It is essential that we all understand the impact we have on one another, for then our dreams become that much more real.

Each journey presents us with all types of challenges that prepare us for the rest of our lives. Make your life better by first believing that you can do whatever you set your mind to do. Accept the criticisms that others give but live by your own standards. Do not let anyone shorten the plans that you have for life with their judgments and cynicism, for this gives them control over you. Know that dreams do not become a reality over night so exercise a little patience, but enjoy life on the way to your destiny.

I encourage everyone to really put their best foot forward in 2007. Begin the year right with a positive outlook towards all areas of your life.