If you’ve never seen The Bucket List, you’re missing out on a journey that is heartwarming, hilarious, and deeply human. The film stars Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman, and it’s one of those rare movies that can make you laugh, make you cry, and maybe even make you think about life from a different perspective.
The plot starts with the two main characters sharing a hospital room, and though they are from different worlds, they are each diagnosed with terminal cancer. As the story progresses, the characters deal with harsh chemotherapy treatments, and a setting that is honest and emotional. When they eventually come to terms with their terminal prognoses, they develop a list of things to do before they die or “kick the bucket,” hence the movie title and the addition of the term, “bucket list” to modern culture.
For “Edward” and “Carter,” their bucket list includes things like skydiving, racing classic cars, and world travel. While some of the scenes are light-hearted and humorous, there are also some deep philosophical undertones. Engaged viewers may wonder or ask themselves about what really matters in life – is it success or money or is it relationships and peace?
I have many, many memories of my Pap. He was a devoted family man who had the strongest faith I have ever seen or known. He never hesitated to share advice and since he lived to be 100, I found great value in everything he said.
Pap lived by the belief that “Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift.” I can’t remember the first time Pap shared those words with me, and I doubt that I truly understood. Now, the meaning of those words not only make sense, but their meaning has continued to evolve.
The things I did or said yesterday are done and over. We can’t go back and there are no mulligans in the game of life. Yesterday is history.
There are no promises for tomorrow. As human beings, we know that life is fragile. There are no guarantees, and we never know what tomorrow will bring. Tomorrow is a mystery.
I will never forget the conversation I had with Pap at his 100th birthday party. I asked him for the best piece of advice he could share. He looked at me intently, and said, “Every day is a gift. Every day that you wake up… that’s a blessing. So be thankful for that.” Today is a gift.
Sometimes, then, I wonder… why do we spend our time waiting for the right time or the perfect moment? Because it’s safe and we avoid risk, failure, and discomfort. Waiting for those right times and perfect moments gives us the illusion of control, but in reality, progress happens in those imperfect moments.
So, here’s a piece of my mind… LIVE NOW! Live without regret and live well. Life is not measured by all that we can acquire, but by the impact we have on others. It’s never too late to chase your passions, repair relationships, or try something new. Make your own bucket list, and make it count! Appreciate the people around you and count your blessings. TODAY is a GIFT.
Very well said Vicki. It was a very nice and meaningful article. I really enjoyed reading it. This article is very informative. Vicki you should write a book. You write very good articles. I love reading them.
Great advice. Beautifully written