We're All Freedom Writers
"Everyone has a story, and it in those stories we can find a thread that ties us all together. That thread is our human experience." -- Kimberlee Morrison
A story of...
hope,
courage,
inspiration,
determination,
perseverance,
dreams,
bonding,
love,
and freedom.
Freedom Writers: It's the universal story shared by each and every one of us. I watched this movie for the first time today and it spoke to me on so many levels - as it probably did to everyone who has watched it.
I first found out about the Freedom Writers movie from fellow writer over at Know More Media, Kimberlee Morrison. Kimberlee was actually one of the students portrayed in the movie. In celebration of Kimberlee's birthday this past week I felt it fitting to check out the movie - finally!
"Blessed With a Burden"
Ms. Gruwell, played by Hilary Swank, was a freshman English teacher ready to take on the challenge of teaching to a group of kids who had previously attended the "School of Hard Knocks". When she walked into class that very first day, all bright-eyed and innocent, I saw myself in her. She was the idealist who thought that anything is possible...and that's me to the bone. Whatever obstacle was faced could be overcome. Ms. Gruwell was determined to make a difference and nothing would get in her way.
For the students attending Ms. Gruwell's class, they found inspiration in her. They no longer were lost souls trying to find an identity. These kids discovered that they, too, have a story to share - a story that would inspire others for years to come.
One of the books the students read was The Diary of Anne Frank - a book I highly recommend that everyone read. I read this book as a young girl and was fascinated with the courage of Anne (who was the same age as me when I read it for the first time). I believe it was after reading The Diary of Anne Frank that I realized not everyone lived a hunky-dory life like I did at that time. My real challenges in life came a little later - which I may share here soon.
The One Little Light in the Dark
Ms. Gruwell found true fulfillment in her life by teaching these kids. She was the little light in her students' world - the one who made the difference. If you want to make a difference in the world, start with the people around you!
We're all Freedom Writers
The reason why I love this movie so much is because I've always encouraged people to tell their story - as did Ms. Gruwell. WE ALL HAVE A STORY TO SHARE. Whether it's in a diary or online blog - just share it! We all have the same hopes and dreams, even though the journey may be different. It's in sharing these stories that we inspire others who may share the same challenges that we face.
Just like Kimberlee said, it's the human experience - the experience of hopes and dreams - that ties us all together.
So, what's your story? What life experience do you have to share that could help someone else?
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Buy the movie >>> Freedom Writers
