By: Francesca Mundrick
The very unfortunate incident of the submersible implosion in June 2023 has sparked a renewed interest in the Blockbuster movie Titanic, 1997. Hitting the Netflix most watched lists overnight, Titanic ended up on my TV on multiple occasions over this past week.
Titanic is a truly timeless movie. It is so widely known and loved because the elements of storytelling in the movie are so prominent. We follow the progression of select characters as they grow in relationships and are met with the immense challenge of surviving the Titanic sinking; with an elderly woman as our matriarchal storyteller. Storytelling allows us to see ourselves in others. I believe it allows us to feel experiences that we never had ourselves.
Jack Dawson strikes me for the freedom of his lifestyle, personality, and spirit. Jack has very powerful gifts- peace of mind, optimism, and, above all, confidence. Having a sound mind and a confident soul can elevate your life, freeing you from everyday fears and insecurities that hold you back, allowing you to be adaptable and live in the moment.
Jack’s existence is a light in the darkness of commonality; something that has been continually in the minority. Throughout the Titanic movie, we see Jack navigate, shape, and conquer social, emotional, and physical challenges by trusting himself. Even at death, he is able to clearly provide Rose with hope.
In a modern world full of negative narratives, difficult challenges, and trends of low self-esteem, we need to remember the lessons that Jack taught us in 1997. He represents the resiliency of the human spirit and the ability to accept all that comes to us with open minds and hearts.
I find that people often judge my seemingly “alternative” life choices such as living in a very small apartment, varied work schedule, part-time college teaching, volunteering, and traveling often. I believe that people question the way I live because they themselves are craving choice, change, challenge, and adventure in their own lives. We are human “beings” after all. We are meant to live.
It comes down to confidence. Confidence to make your own choices. Confidence to go against the grain. Confidence to keep our passions in front. Confidence to notice the beauty in the world. Confidence to trust yourself. Confidence to share yourself with others. Confidence to let life take the wheel. Confidence to be free.
“……….like a tumbleweed blowing in the wind.” #tumbleweedbeings = The Jack Dawsons of the world.
Jack Dawson, Actor Leonardo Dicaprio, Environmental Activist, Titanic Movie Wikia, Titanic Movie, 1997
We must use Jack as our inspiration, knowing that confidence and what comes with it is completely invaluable and one of the only things that is truly priceless in this world.
With inspiration in sustainability,
Francesca Mundrick
WEGSS Founder & Team Member
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