It’s Thanksgiving morning and I am curled up on the couch with my cup of coffee watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Suddenly the Broadway cast of Dear Evan Hansen appears on screen and sings their song “You Will Be Found.” I am captivated by the amount of compassion in their eyes and voices. That night, I listened to this song as I fell asleep, and since then have had the soundtrack on repeat frequently.
That same weekend, I saw the movie Wonder. I don’t think I have ever cried during a movie for as long of a duration as I did this one (which is saying something, given the movies I have seen and my high emotional reactivity). The amount of love and warmth in this film is truly heart melting. The movie follows a boy named Auggie, who is in fifth grade. He was born with a facial difference, and has been homeschooled all his life, up until now. Throughout the movie, you see Auggie gain courage and friendships as he learns to face the world as he truly is.
Earlier that week when I had first come home for break, I went to the elementary school to surprise my friend Nathan, whom I worked with this summer as a personal care assistant. The look of pure surprise on his face when I arrived is one that I will remember for a long time. I couldn’t stop smiling when I was in the cafeteria with him as he proudly introduced me to his friends and we all discussed his YouTube channel and new kitten.
During this movie I could hardly hold myself together. I thought about my summer with Nathan and all that he has taught me about not being afraid. I thought about when I was younger and felt like I wasn’t able to do as much as other kids. And, as Auggie says in the movie, I thought about how “we are all wonders.”
I have been through my share of obstacles, but these tough memories are always overshadowed by the unending support I have received and all the incredible connections I have made. These connections have added so much light and warmth in my life. In my eyes, all of these people are individual wonders, as they have all woven through my life in so many beautiful ways.
The holiday season is upon us, which can be a difficult time for some. I ask that you keep your eyes and ears open and be there to lift up someone who may need it. Your kindness can be the light in someone’s darkness. And by being a light, you can illuminate all of the wonders in this world. As we go home for break, try to keep others in mind. Maybe grab coffee with someone you haven’t talked to as much since high school, or sit down with your recent empty-nester parent and tell them how much you appreciate them. It’s the little things that can go along way, especially during this joyous season!
Also, PLEASE GO WATCH WONDER. You won’t regret it!
Happy Holidays,
Bridget