It Really IS A Wonderful Life, You Know...

It's amazing how much this movie has an effect on me year after year. We watched this a couple nights ago, and it was like I was watching a brand new movie. The dialogue is amazing, and I'm just talking about the parts that would be considered throw away dialogue in most movies nowadays.

And George Bailey is more easy to identify with this year it seems, even more than others.

Most of you who know me, know that I've been struggling with depression lately, and esteem issues for quite a while longer. Without going into more detail, needless to say, I could really identify with George Bailey. Especially the grouchy, depressed George Bailey at the end who spouted off great gems like, "...and we're supposed to be a happy family - why do we have so many kids???" Complaining just to complain sometimes....yeah, I've been there.

Of course, you all know the story...Clarence the angel shows up, shows George how life would have been if he were never born....it's not a pretty picture. But something different struck me this time around, and I hope I can express it right.....

George's elation at the end.... It wasn't because he realized the impact on other people's lives (which obviously he did) - it was that, in this alternate world, this Pottersville, the people he knew were strangers to him - the feeling of despair, of an empty life without the family and friends - he missed what was nearest and dearest to him. The feeling of having that back - really was pure bliss. Whatever comes in this life, it's the people you can lean on - that surround you - the true pillars that hold you up in this world - I thank God for my wife, my child, my family, my family of friends - He has truly blessed me and placed people in my life that have been the stregnth I needed when I felt I had none. And it makes me realize how many things I take for granted. So with that being said....

Merry Christmas, Work that I like to complain so much about - I'm glad to have a job!!!

Merry Christmas, Drafty and small house that I live in - So many foreclosures, I really am fortunate!!!

Merry Christmas, Church that I way too often complain about having to go to - God loves me regardless of what I do!!!

Merry Christmas, Beat up car I drive daily - glad to have a way around town!!!

Merry Christmas, Grandparents that I see way too little of!!!

Merry Christmas, Family that has known me forever!!!

Merry Christmas, Friends that know me best and support me through my worst!!!

Merry Christmas, My beautiful wife and daughter, my support - I cannot say I love you both enough!!!

It truly is a WONDERFUL LIFE!