I recently watched one of the most moving motion pictures that I have ever seen. After seeing "Free State of Jones," I came out of the theater upset, moved and hungry for change. Based on a true story, "Free State of Jones" tells the story of one man's hard work and commitment to doing what is right and true. Set in Civil War times, Newton Knight begins the movie fighting for the Confederacy. As the story progresses, we watch as friendships are made, rules are broken and justice is sought. This is a tough movie to watch, because it depicts unsettling realities of the 1860s. It shows that not all Southerners fit into the stereotypical Confederate Rebel mold. There was amazing character progression, and the plot was riveting. This movie was so powerful, I knew I had to share the most important lessons this movie emphasizes.
1. Love knows no color.
Whether it's romantic or brotherly love, this movie shows the true string that brings people together—love. Black or white, Confederate or Union, rich or poor—love knows no limits. As long as people are willing to let their minds, souls and lives mingle together, a true bond can be woven to last a lifetime.
2. Every man is a man.
Many people in the Civil War times (and later during segregation) tried to undermine folks who were different than them. White men bought and sold African Americans just like they bought guns or food. A black male was called many names—"negro," "slave," "property," "apprentice"—but it took a long time for everyone to truly look at black males as men. From the words of Newt Knight, "Every man is a free man in the eyes of the Lord."
3. Sowing is hard work, but reaping the benefits is sweet.
Can you imagine being able to do whatever you want for the very first time in your whole life? Listen to music, stay out late, wear whatever you want? When President Lincoln declared emancipation for all slaves, they were able to own and work their own land for the very first time. They were able to plant seeds, hoe the rows and eat corn they grew. You know they took such pride in that work, because it was finally theirs. They were able to actually enjoy the benefits of their work instead of watching their masters. Something that many of us take for granted was deeply cherished by freed slaves. Hard work is hard for a reason—it reaps great benefits.
4. There will always be someone who wants to see you fail.
Even when Jesus walked on Earth, people wanted Him dead. That's just proof that no matter how much good you do in the world, how nice you are, how Christian you are or how hard you try to do that right thing, someone will always be waiting in the rafters to see you crash and burn. That's how life is, don't take it personally. Just use it as ammo to fire up your willpower and rise above it.
5. Bribing may bring money and power, but honesty will bring respect and honor.
Without getting on a soapbox, just look at our government right now. We all know that the only way to get to the top is by working for it fair and square. It's not about who you know, who you can tickle their fancy or who you can sweet talk the best. The only way to have a high moral standing in the community is by being honest. When you make a mistake, admit it and move on. Don't lie about it, or try to shift the focus away from it. Own up to it, be honest and move on. Work hard for what you have, and when you finally reach the top, you will have made it on your own; honestly and truthfully.
6. It only takes seconds for one bad thing to destroy a lifetime of good things.
Oftentimes, we work our whole lives making a good name for ourselves and making sure our reputation is spotless. Let's look at an example: A high school senior goes to a party with one of her friends and drinks for the first time. She thought she felt okay enough to drive, but her judgement was off and caused her to run a red light. Although she was a 4.0 pre-med student, that one bad choice could ruin her entire life. Let me be clear, it doesn't have to be your mistake to ruin a lifetime of work. You can gather resources, and donate your time and energy into something,but it only takes one thing to ruin everything you've worked for. Reiterating the fourth point, there will always be people whose life goal is to make other people miserable. That's life.
7. You can only live for you.
If you listen to the world, there will always be someone smarter, someone prettier, someone more talented than you. People will let you down. Friends will drift apart. You cannot base your life on pleasing other people. You have to live for you, your hopes and dreams, and then work your butt of to reach those goals. When you've become the CEO of a company, opened your own medical practice, or graduated law school, you will have accomplished that goal because you wanted to and because you believed in yourself.
8. Be proud of your heritage.
All families are a little crazy, that's what makes families so amazing. We're all a little dysfunctional, but somehow we find a way to love each other despite our flaws. Our siblings can physically tackle us in a game of football and break our nose, yet we laugh about it later. We may have a crazy-great aunt that wears that ugly Halloween sweater, but we still love her. Even if your family has a rocky history, love them anyway. Be proud of them anyway. Don't lie about who you're related to. God specifically chose your family for you to be born into. If you have African American in your heritage, be proud! No one else in the world has the unique family tree that you do. I can promise you that they worked hard to get you where you are today, even if they have passed on by the time you were born. They laid the foundation for you to be successful right now in this very moment. Be proud of your family and where you came from.
9. Don't turn a blind eye towards all the wrong—do your part to change it.
There are so many horrible things going on in the world, today. All of our hearts ache as we hear of another terror attack, another shooting or another fatal car crash. But what can we do about it? Do we really think that writing an online article or posting on Facebook will change the world? We must get out there and put actions behind our words! Donate to families of the victims. Pray for the family of the shooter. Start a campaign in your community to educate about safe driving. There are so many opportunities to shine God's light in this hurting world- but you must get out there with a willing heart and open hands to make a difference.
10. Above all, fight for what you believe in.
It doesn't matter what your beliefs are—if you believe in them, fight for them! I believe strongly in Alzheimer's research. Some people don't, and that's OK! Our differences make us unique. Some people believe in saving the whales. Fight for it! Start a campaign, donate to a research project, raise awareness for the cause. Remember that these issues matter to someone, so instead of boycotting other's opinions, turn that negative energy into willpower and fight for something you believe in!
