We just finished watching "Pollyanna" again for the hundredth time. It is one of my favorite movies and books. I love the way Pollyanna looks at life and then introduces an entire town to the "glad game."
This time however as I watched the movie, a new concept stood out at me. It began with a conversation between Pollyanna and the Minister.
Pollyanna: Do you like being a minister?
Minister: What kind of a question is that?
Pollyanna: I asked my father that once–he was a minister too you know.
Minister (eagerly): What did he say?
Pollyanna: He said he liked being a minister, but it made him sad when people wouldn’t listen to what he was preaching.
Minister: Yes, I suppose every man of God has felt like that.
Pollyanna: Then he read something one day that made him feel better.
Minister: From the Bible?
Pollyanna: No, from a book. He had it engraved on this locket. (picks up the locket and begins to read) If….you…look…oh it makes me cross-eyed everytime I try to read it!
Minister: May I? (begins reading) “If you look for the bad in people, you’re sure to find it, so look for the good instead. A. Lincoln“
I pondered over this quote a lot today. Here is the exact quote from Abraham Lincoln:
"If you look for the bad in people
expecting to find it,
you surely will."
Everyone has faults, nobody is perfect, and yet if you choose to find fault in others, you are the one who loses. You lose out on friends, opportunities and most important of all, happiness.
Instead of looking for the bad, compliment, uplift and accentuate the good qualities in those whom you come in contact with. When you do a magical transformation takes place in your life, for as you seek the good in others you will find joy and happiness in your own life.
A few years ago we watched all the old Disney movies I loved when I was a kid. Some aged better than others, and Pollyanna was one of the ones that was just as good as I remembered. The kids and I enjoyed it and it led to many sessions of the glad game.
ReplyDeleteWhat a sweet post, and a good reminder.
I've always loved that movie...and we need to add it to our collection. I have always tried to look for the good in others, and to look on the bright side of things! Life sometimes hands you circumstances that make it difficult, but if you can remember these lessons, you will make it through the rough patches much easier! Thanks for sharing. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks mom! That is a great quote and the best way to look at life.
ReplyDeletemy favorite movie also! I love this quote but not sure i noticed it in the movie. Thanks for posting i really needed this uplifting idea.
ReplyDeleteWonderful post. I have watched that movie so many times and had to give up the "glad game" when the kids got bigger. But who could argue with A. Lincoln, right?
ReplyDeleteI have always loved this movie... in fact, I often call myself a "Pollyanna" because I like everything to be happy. I love the quote as well, and have used it in talks and in teaching the YW. Great post!
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