I think the impact of being inspired is under-rated. While I spend a lot of time thinking about what moves me and what moves the hearts and minds of others – I am often faced with a pretty cynical perspective. We are all assaulted with negative news coverage and grumpy drivers, intolerant minds and closed hearts. It’s discouraging.
I understand the frustration people feel – and I often feel the same; however, I am convinced if we were more open to the idea of being inspired — if we allowed the triumphant stories of others to genuinely lift our spirit – we’d all be better off.
For me, inspiration happens when I am able to see qualities in other people that make me want to do better and judge less, to simplify my life and value its contents. But most of all, I’m inspired by things that give me the courage to put my life into perspective.
I do my best to be open to inspiration. This weekend was no exception.
While rugby is certainly not likely to beat out baseball, basketball or football as “America’s Sport” any time soon, most of the world follows it with great fervor and national pride. So, if I were to say I saw an exciting and inspirational film about rugby – I would anticipate the skeptical response. At times, I might even join in the sentiment. However, Clint Eastwood seems to have pulled off the impossible in his latest release, “Invictus” starring Morgan Freeman as Nelson Mandela.
The story surrounds the journey of the South Africa’s rugby team and their captain during the early months of Nelson Mandela’s presidency when tensions and expectations were at a fevered pitch. While Mandela’s supporters were feeling inspired by the new leadership – many remained bitter in the wake of apartheid, so the idea of a reconciled South Africa still seemed unlikely – especially in the hearts of the people.
Recognizing the need for unified inspiration, Nelson Mandela joined forces with the predominantly white rugby team to help unite their country as they made an unlikely bid to win the 1995 World Cup.
For sports lovers, the film is filled with exiting rugby matches and team conflicts. For political junkies, it is filled with fascinating studies of political maneuvering and the fight to change public opinion. For history buffs it gives a glimpse into a story that has yet to make the textbooks. But for humans – of all kinds – it is an inspiring tale of overcoming prejudice – both in our own minds and the minds of others. So, whatever it is that inspires you – this movie is likely to do the trick.
By Stephanie Koehler [email protected]