Thursday, December 11, 2008

It's A Wonderful Life Holiday Tradition

Life begins and then one day... it ends. The space between the beginning and ending is filled with experiences, activity and most importantly ...people. Jimmy Stewart showed us how each person touches the lives of others in his amazing portrayal of George Bailey in "It's A Wonderful Life".

James Stewart is my favorite actor of all time. Of course I did not know him personally, but I can honestly say he has made a great impact on my life. Watching one of his movies always puts me in a peaceful mood and has a soothing effect on my soul. Anyone who knows me really well is very aware of what a big fan I am of this legend. In fact, my father-in-law used to call me every time a Jimmy Stewart movie came on so I could watch it.

I think most of us realize how important other people are in our lives. We value our family members and friends. The key concept to "It's A Wonderful Life" is that sometimes we don't understand just how much of a difference we can make in someone else's life. That smile that we give a stranger just might turn their whole day around for the better.

There is a song called "Moments" by Emerson Drive that reminds me of "It's A Wonderful Life". That might be why I liked this song immediately and so much. Other people can make such a difference in your life. It could be a chance meeting, a dear friend, or a new person that came into your life at just the right time. You too can do that for other people.

It is a holiday tradition for me to watch "It's A Wonderful Life" every Christmas season. I never tire of watching it and it still has the same incredible effect on me each and every time. The message is beautiful and Jimmy Stewart is simply the best. Take a look around you and be aware of how much you touch other people's lives and how they touch yours.

*In memory of my father-in-law who passed away on December 9, 2008. Thank you Pop for touching my life. I love you.




Photo courtesy of hunnybunny777 on Flickr

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11 comments:

John Sullivan said...

Dear Kelly
Wow,I had to sit for a minute to let all the many thoughts settle.I have read many post on many blogs and I have to say that may just be the strongest post ever,what is hidden is the true meaning of happiness and success.A life where you can experience love,heartache,loss of loved ones,mistakes and come to realize just what is really important.I often watch older movies and think that all those actors are now dead but their characters live forever:)
I also had an awesome POP in my life and I'm sure yours felt every word you wrote- very beautiful
Thanks so much for sharing that with us all :) Happy Holidays

Benny said...

Hey Kelly -

I am with John on this one. Not only many blogs, but I have been a follower of yours since the beginning. And - this is the best post you have ever written. The "feelings" just bubble to the surface in this one and really touch the lives (and it should) of any one who reads this! My heart felt sympathy for you loss Kelly and thanks for sharing this little piece of you with us...

Benny

SBA said...

I'm glad I stumbled on your post. I also had a tradition of watching "It's a wonderful life" during the holidays. It's a good way to bring back the positive memories of ones you've lost. But it's been a couple of years now since I've seen the movie --- doesn't seem to pop up on TV as much as it used to. However I have the video so not much of an excuse! Thanks for reminding me to put it in my Christmas stocking.

Kathryn Skaggs said...

Kelly -

I'm touched, because I too, love this movie and also adore Jimmy Stewart. But above all - I know that each one of us, are important to so many others in this life.

The Christmas season, is a wonderful time to bring out these innate feelings in all of us - and you have done this for me, today.

tDMg
Kathryn

Donna said...

"It's A Wonderful Life" is also one of my favorite Christmas movies! Just as George Bailey learned... we all need to know how important "we" are to many people. We all impact others in ways that we may never even know. Good post!

Merry Christmas!

José said...

Hi,

I have to say that Jimmy is also one of my favourite actors. Together with Trevor Howard and Gregory Peck (hope I got the names right).
And what about the double Jack Lemon and Walter Matthau ? One of my favourites.
I like those B&W movies where acting is more important than visual effects.
I'm sorry for the loss of your father-in-law. I'm sure that he'd love to see a smile on your face whenever you think of him.

Kind regards,

José

Christina said...

Fate is always around. It seems that the person we need is always there at the right moment, IF we take the time to recognize them. Happy Holidays. Remember the good times.

Donald B. Dousharm said...

What you wrote in your review on SU is exactly what you have done for me on this day.

“The key concept to "It's A Wonderful Life" is that sometimes we don't understand just how much of a difference we can make in someone else's life. That smile that we give a stranger just might turn their whole day around for the better”

You have touched my life by creating this extra special blog and by being warm, friendly and funny too. I can only speak for myself when I say that since I have followed you over from Flugpo I have been coming back again and again. I always find what you write about to be both entertaining and deep.

All I can do after this post is say thank you and wish you and your family a Very Marry Christmas.

JB said...

Another great post, Kelly. I'm with you, I can't think about Christmas and NOT watch this movie. Call me sentimental but it will never get old for me.

Thanks for sharing and what wonderful thoughts during the holidays.

JB

Me-Me King said...

It's a wonderful post!

Happy Holidays, Kelly

Sheila-Army Wife said...

I just love Jimmy Stewart. He was a remarkable man. Very talented and loved by many.

I met a few movie stars by doing extra work, but never had the honor of meeting Mr. Stewart, but oh how I would have to of met him

At least we have his Xmas movies to carry on in memory