My Favorite Film Teaches Me to Choose Kindness

Last weekend, I watched the movie “Wonder” again — for probably about the fifth time.

The first day it was released in South Africa, I sat in the cinema crying my eyes out. Since then, I have watched it whenever I have spotted it showing on the television, as well as with my sister once we both finished reading the book. If you haven’t yet had the chance to watch it, I would really recommend adding it to your list of must-see films — but have the tissues ready!

As IMDb describes it, citing Lionsgate:

“Based on the New York Times bestseller, WONDER tells the incredibly inspiring and heartwarming story of August Pullman. Born with facial differences that, up until now, have prevented him from going to a mainstream school, Auggie becomes the most unlikely of heroes when he enters the local fifth grade. As his family, his new classmates, and the larger community all struggle to discover their compassion and acceptance, Auggie’s extraordinary journey will unite them all and prove you can’t blend in when you were born to stand out.”

This movie teaches viewers how rude it is to stare, and how we should choose to be kind in this life. It hits me hard every time, no matter how many times I consider this lesson.

The film has several quotes we could learn from, including some of my absolute favorites:

• “Be kind, for everyone is fighting a hard battle. And if you really want to see what people are, all you have to do is look.”
• “When given the choice between being right or being kind, choose kind.”
• “Auggie can’t change how he looks. Maybe we should choose how we see.”

These are simple quotes that we could easily remember on a daily basis. Why do we so often judge others or allow society to dictate to us what is considered “normal”? It doesn’t cost us anything to be kind to one another, to offer a simple “hello,” or to take the time to listen when somebody needs to talk. Having a chronic illness can often make patients, caregivers, and family members feel excluded or as if they are being judged by others.

It comes down to us, the rare warriors, to help make others feel included, loved, and special.

We are not in competition with each other over who is sicker or has been through more trying times. Rather, we should be there for each other to offer support and understanding. We should encourage others and let them know that they are not alone. Every day, we need to make the conscientious decision to #ChooseKindness.

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