Remember that one scene in the new Star Wars movie, "The Force Awakens," when the lost piece to the map to Luke Skywalker contained in BB-8 is perfectly aligned with the rest of the map found by R2-D2? And then, (spoiler alert), Rey is able to find THE Luke Skywalker.
Even if you are not familiar with this movie, there are countless other movies that share the same theme of everything working out in the end. From childhood Disney films such as "Snow White and the Seven Dwarves," where Snow White is able to be revived again after the magical kiss of her own prince that just happened to show up at the right place at the right time, to the Harry Potter films, where Harry somehow always manages to escape Voldemort's grasp, it's evident that movies portray an illusionistic view of life.
However, there's actual truth in this repeated idealistic theme of life always working out. Of course, we have all heard the cliche:
"Everything will be okay in the end. If it's not okay, it's not the end."
(which is a quote by John Lennon.)
There's reassurance when we realize that not everything is in our power. Not everything has to work out in the beginning, and in fact, there are times when certain downfalls help us learn from experiences we couldn't have otherwise.
So how is this relinquishing of control comforting? Most of the time, I am comforted only when I know that I have support from other people, when I know I have control of my own life.
But, my initial idea of comfort is only temporary, because I can never realistically maintain full stability and control of my life. There are other ways of finding comfort; ones that are far more permanent.
1. Religion
Not everyone finds comfort in ancient herbs and chanting to the sun. Not everyone is comfortable with going to church or temple, but for me, I find a sense of permanence and an unconditional promise in God.
2. Family
Coming back home for break really allowed to see the importance of family. No matter what we may say or do that may hurt a relationship between a mother or father, they are always willing to forgive us because these are the people that want to see us nothing but happy.
3. Friends
Quality over quantity. It's not about how many friends on Facebook you have, or how many people liked your Instagram pic. People who are there for you when you don't even have to ask, people who know you so well that they can recognize your laugh from across the room, people who are willing to help you because they want to see you happy and successful; these people are the ones who are friends.
4. Taking a break
There are many scenarios in which taking a break may be completely the opposite of comforting: namely, when a certain significant other calls it quits and claims that, "Maybe... we should take a break." However, the honest act of strictly "taking a break", without the underlying intention of flat out quitting or giving up, can be comforting and allow a refreshing breakthrough, whether it's in a relationship or an activity or occupation.
