What I have learned lately (from Ladybird)

Image from Wikipedia

See what I did there? So sneaky...
I watched Lady Bird on the plane over to Singapore. Great little film with a few pearls of wisdom.

1. "Money is not life's report card"
I have a friend who has hit a reversal of fortune, however, compared to MANY people I know, still doing way better than most. Instead of growing up in his world view, he seems still focused on (in my opinion) all the wrong things. Money makes life easier, and fun, and takes stress out of disaster but your focus still needs to be on relationships and those things that really matter. I am amazed at people I know who have so much yet don't seem happy or fulfilled. A little more internal investment would help them much more than what's in their bank account.
With a child in their HSC year, it's interesting what occupations are coming up in conversations. Prestige in careers seems to be in a lot of parent's minds. It's sad. The child's desires are often dismissed. Surely what makes you happy and provides fulfillment is a good starting point. You can always chase the money after that...

2. 'Don't you think they're the same thing - love and attention?'
A very interesting point. Marriages fall apart when a spouse is neglected. Not paying attention to what matters to your partner will lead to loneliness. Not paying attention to children invalidates them. Perhaps attention is the best way to show our love?

3. When asked why she is crying, the response is 'Some people aren't built happy'. This broke my heart. Anyone who has tried to help someone with depression will know the pain of the illogical reasoning. You wish they could see themselves through your eyes. however, I do genuinely believe that they can be helped to be happy. It will take a long time and a lot of work, but it's a good reminder to those helpers not to dismiss the feelings. They aren't being selfish or self indulgent, they just aren't built happy.

Lastly, my favourite, when asked if she was any good at something, Lady Bird replies "Not that we are aware of yet". When trying something new, don't be daunted or presume you won't be good at it. You are simply unaware of your capabilities. Just because you haven't had success at your chosen enterprise, don't let that defeat you...YET.

Linking with #StayClassyMama