As a parent, I believe in using every opportunity to teach my children valuable life lessons, including through the magic of cinema. Recently, we embarked on a journey through J.R.R. Tolkien’s captivating universe by watching the entire Hobbit trilogy followed by the Lord of the Rings trilogy. My children, ages 8 and 10, might be seen as a bit too young for these epic tales, but I firmly disagree.
Growing up, I was a latchkey kid who spent countless hours absorbed in movies and television. Despite that, I developed into a well-adjusted individual with a rich imagination. I see no issue with allowing my kids to experience the same joy of screen time, as long as it fosters discussion and engagement.
Over the course of 1,032 minutes, we sat together, sharing laughs, tears, and insightful conversations. I paused to ask questions about the plot, and they did the same, leading us to explore deeper themes and emotions. Here are five key lessons my kids picked up during this cinematic adventure:
1. Thinking of Others
Our hero, Frodo, is known for his love of peace and quiet, yet he steps out of his comfort zone to help his friends reclaim their homeland. This act of selflessness is a beautiful reminder for my kids about the importance of empathy and helping those in need.
2. Embracing Courage
In one poignant scene, Gandalf reveals that witnessing Frodo’s bravery inspires him to be courageous as well. This moment sparked curiosity in my kids, prompting discussions about how everyone, no matter how mighty, can draw strength from others. It’s a powerful reminder that we can uplift those around us.
3. Celebrating Differences
The character of Radagast, with his eccentricities, teaches us to appreciate the quirks in others. Despite his odd appearance, he is valued for his kindness and contributions. I hope my children learn to embrace diversity and accept people for who they are.
4. Building Trust
Initially, Legolas and Gimli struggle due to historical tensions between their races. As they learn to trust each other, they form a bond that showcases the beauty of friendship. I want my kids to understand that despite differences, it’s possible to create strong connections with those who may seem different at first.
5. Perseverance
Whether it’s Sméagol battling his darker self or Sam and Frodo facing insurmountable odds to destroy the ring, the theme of perseverance shines through. My children witnessed characters who faltered and triumphed, reinforcing the lesson that life is a journey filled with ups and downs.
While I can talk about life lessons until I’m blue in the face, there’s something about experiencing these stories together that resonates more deeply. When we engage with films that reflect real-life challenges, it opens the door for candid discussions. I can be there as a comforting presence, ready to support them as they navigate their feelings and realizations.
Through our shared movie nights, I’ve seen the lightbulbs go off in their minds as they connect the dots. They get to feel the joy and sorrow of the characters on screen, and I’m grateful to be part of that journey with them.
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In summary, sharing films like the ‘Lord of the Rings’ with my children has not only entertained us but has also imparted crucial life lessons about empathy, courage, acceptance, trust, and the importance of perseverance.
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