Wizard of Oz

You know how last week I was all giddy because I got to see Fall Out Boy in concert? I'm just as giddy now,but because I saw Wizard of Oz in 3d this weekend.

Wizard of Oz is my all time favorite movie. I love everything about it. When I was in kindergarten I used to watch it after school like all the time. I get excited when it's on tv. I know every line. My mom and I used to go to the Wizard of Oz display at the mall every year. I can't get enough.

I happened to read something about the movie coming to Imax theatres for a limited time and immediately Tom and I made plans to go. I practically skipped into that theatre, y'all.

As I sat there with my 3d glasses on, I let myself fall into the world of Oz. I don't think the smile left my face the entire time. I said the lines, sang the words, giggled, and even cried. It was almost as though I was seeing the movie for the first time all over again.

I think each of us can take something from that movie. For me, and probably many, it's the realization that sometimes what we want the most is already inside of us, it just takes a little adventure to realize that.

The lion is my favorite character. I relate to him the most. I spent most of my life wishing I was braver, wishing I had more courage. It took me a very long time to realize I am brave, I just had to dig a little deeper to find it. You know when Dorothy is trapped and the three of them are trying to come up with a plan? The lion goes on and on about what he's going to do to save her, and then pleads the other two to talk him out of it. I've always understood that part so well. There are many times I wish I could get out of a situation, wish someone would give me an easy way out. But most of the time, my friends step in like scarecrow and tinman, and push me forward. Like they should.

Of course, the other obvious message in the movie is "there's no place like home". No matter how far away we can drift, our home will be there. And home doesn't even necessarily have to be your immediate family or the house you grew up in. For me it is, but I know there are people who aren't as lucky and who may never want that to be considered home. I don't think it has to be. I think home is wherever you are most at peace, most full of love and joy. Surrounded by people who you adore and who make you a better person.

Besides my family, my other home is anything mercy related. That was made obvious to me again tonight, when I led a prayer service for Mercy Day with the sisters of mercy. I walked into the chapel with an overwhelming sense of peace. That's hone, and there really is no place like it.

I loved escaping into that magical world. The immense joy that movie gives me is just beautiful. I'll carry the words and lessons for as long as I live.