Favorites

Some of my favorite movies are like a warm, cozy pair of pajamas.  They just feel “right” when I’m worn out, need a pick-me-up, or when I’m traveling and longing for a bit of humor or comfort.  

When I don’t want to think too much or risk disappointment, I put on an old favorite film and halfway pay attention as I relax and enjoy the familiar storyline.  

I know I’m not the only one.  

Movies, along with music and books, can be an emotional regulator.  Part of why we like re-visiting the same ones over and over is because that’s a way for us to control our emotions.  We know what to expect.  We’ve already been through the viewing experience and we’re prepared for what’s coming.  There are no major surprises.

And yet, no matter how many times I have encountered the same piece of content, I almost always find something new.  

It might be a line from the script or a detail from the plot.  But somehow, I’ve never noticed it before.  A juicy tidbit escaped my attention (or maybe, it went right over my head.)    When I finally do “get it,” I wonder how I missed it in the first place.  This keeps things interesting.

Still, these revelations are few and far between.  After all, I’m choosing to watch my tried-and-true favorites precisely because I can count on them.  I know them well, even if there might be an occasional bit that seems new.

My first question to you is:

What are your favorite pieces of content, and why did you choose them?  How did they make you feel?  (I know that’s more than one question.)

My next question is this: 

What if a piece of content or art that you create becomes someone else’s favorite?  What if they choose your work because they can trust it, just like that pair of well-loved pajamas?  Can you imagine that, in another place and time, your work might bring a welcome and necessary respite to a stranger?  

Let that sink in.