Lessons from The Lorax-- Part I: "Let it Grow"

I went to see The Lorax today, the movie based on the Dr. Seuss book.  It's not one of the books I remember ever having read or had read to me.  So, I really didn't know what to expect.  Click here for a link to The Lorax official site.

I took my daughter and her twin friends, I dub them the "triplets".  The three fish that sang together in the movie reminded me of them. ☺

I was reminded of the movie that starred Jim Carrey with the walled-in city, The Truman Show.

I almost wished I had brought in a notebook with me because there were SO many things that caught my attention that warranted further thought and application to spiritual formation.  I could sense blogposts and a sermon coming together as I watched the movie.  I promise that was NOT my intention as I entered the theater.  My intention was to give my brain some down time! ☺

I'll start with the lesson at the end of the movie.  It included a song, "Let it Grow".  What struck me here was that one seedling was all that was needed to give new life a chance.  Of course, there were other things involved prior to that point that included risk-taking, going against the flow, being willing to take a stand for your beliefs.  Those are some of the positive lessons.  There are also lessons on greed, going back on your word/covenant, living in a false world.  There is a great theme of taking care of our environment and "going green".  And, there is a great quote at the end.  If I were to continue on, I might come up with more.... but I'll save my lists and thoughts for other blogposts.

For now, click on the link below and listen/watch the video of Ester Dean singing "Let It Grow".  The lyrics are included below.  As you read over the lyrics, what stands out to you?  What words or phrases catch your attention? 

"Let It Grow" by Ester Dean
Plant a seed inside the Earth
Just one way to know its worth
When we celebrate the world
Celebrate the world
Come on and
Celebrate the world
Celebrate the world

All you gotta do,
All you gotta do is live your life
Be true, live your life, be true
And never be afraid, never be afraid to grow, grow

It don’t matter how you got it
It’s your now, don’t you hide it
Let it grow, let it grow

Let the love inside you show it
Just one way you know you’re worth it
Let it grow, let it grow

Just believe and you’re almost there
Use your heart to show you care
Come on and celebrate the world
Celebrate the world
Come on and
Celebrate the world
Yeah

All you gotta do,
All you gotta do is live your life
Be true, live your life, be true
And never be afraid, never be afraid to grow, grow

It don’t matter how you got it
It’s your now, don’t you hide it
Let it grow, let it grow

Let the love inside you show it
Just one way you know you’re worth it
Let it grow, let it grow

It’s your turn now
To show your world now
Open up your heart and let it grow
It’s your turn now
To show your world now
Open up your heart and let it grow

It don’t matter how you got it
It’s your now, don’t you hide it
Let it grow, let it grow

Let the love inside you show it
Just one way you know you’re worth it
Let it grow, let it grow

Now that you've heard the song and read the lyrics, what is it in your life that you need to let grow?  How can you show the love inside of you?  Are you ready to live your life and not be afraid? 

Be bold and courageous!  Remember that there are others on the journey as well.  Talk with them about whatever it is in your life that you are ready to "let grow". 

Blessings on your journey!

~Debra