I recently went to watch a movie with a couple friends. One of my favorite parts about the cinematic experience as a whole is the trailers at the beginning of the movie. With only a few exceptions, the two or three minute trailers promise a great story line, interesting characters, and a great balance between intense drama and lighthearted comedy; however only a small percentage of the full-length films actually lives up to such promises.
For a while I have wondered what the trailer of my life would look like. After some consideration I actually think it could be rather good. Adventure sequences in the great outdoors, travels to different countries, a handful of awards, and touching moments with friends and family would be stitched together into a compelling two or three minute spot. And the same could go for anyone. It is easy to look good in a highlight reel. It is simple to hide our cracks, our humanity when only our best moments are shown. Whether that be in the trailer of our lives, our social media outlets, or our carefully maintained appearance as soon as we step out the door we can, without much imagination, create an image of ourself, a story we want others to believe that hides the confused, the broken, the disillusioned.
After listening to one of my mentors give a talk at a breakfast meeting, a close friend of his spoke up and called attention to the consistency he demonstrated in everyday life even though the two of them were so close that they could clearly see one another’s cracks, their imperfections. Consistency is what takes good trailers and makes them into great movies. Consistency is what changes acts worth momentary applause into world altering movements. Consistency is what engenders trust in those around you, faith in those nearest to you, and respect from all who know of you. When all is said and done, everyday I want to work to make my two minute preview into an even better story.
JR.Stanley 