There’s something intriguingly self-absorbed about evaluating yourself and identifying the qualities that make you exceptional… to your own self. Like many of you, I often grapple with a unconscious desire to highlight the aspects I yearn to transform, rather than celebrating my strengths.

My Most Valued Trait

Kindness is a fundamental strength that interweaves with numerous other commendable traits; it has remained a steadfast constant in my character throughout the years.

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Some of my favorite films throughout my lifetime feature kindness and humility at their very core, reflecting back to me the character traits I admire and attempt to emulate on a daily basis. What films? Well, here are three that come to mind and why they impact me the way they do.

Return of the Jedi: Intuition & Perserverance

The saying goes “nice guys finish last”, but I have always had issues with stereotypical sayings like that. Would the end of 1983’s “Return of the Jedi” have been better if Darth Vader eliminated Luke Skywalker once and for all instead of sacrificing his own life for his son? As Luke said several times throughout the saga, there was good in Anakin Skywalker, regardless of his transformation into the evil Lord Vader. It just took some time and soul-searching to find it.

Charlotte’s Web: Friendship & Sacrifice

In the 1973 animated film, “Charlotte’s Web”, Charlotte works tirelessly day and night to first form and then execute (poor choice of words) a plan to save Wilbur from (quite literally) the slaughterhouse. Spinning messages into her web above Wilbur’s pen (“Some Pig”, “Terrific”), she extols his virtues for all the world to see, all the while knowing that once she creates her “magnum opus”, her own life will end.

It’s a Wonderful Life: You’re More Than You Know

There is a profound significance to the enduring legacy of the 1946 Christmas classic “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Engaging with themes of hope and redemption, Jimmy Stewart’s portrayal of George Bailey reaches a critical juncture, as he stands on the precipice of despair at a bridge, contemplating an irreversible decision to end his life. His Uncle Billy’s foolish mistake has inadvertently placed a considerable sum of money into the unscrupulous hands of Mr. Potter, leaving George in a state of utter hopelessness. However, his guardian angel, Clarence, reveals the stark consequences of a world without him in it, prompting George to recognize the true impact he has had on the lives of others. Upon returning home, he finds his entire community gathered in support, having collectively raised the necessary funds to amend Uncle Billy’s grave error. “No man is a failure who has friends”. No doubt.

Kindness: The Sweet Connection

In addition to great, but fictitious, characters in film I owe a great deal to my parents for shaping who I am today, and I believe the trait I most value in life is kindness. This aspect of my personality sometimes leads me astray, as I occasionally slip into devil’s advocate mode, temporarily losing sight of my true thoughts in the process while avoiding being a “yes” man. It may be a touch idealistic on my part, but I wholeheartedly embrace the timeless wisdom that states you attract more bees with honey.

Now It’s Your Turn

What’s the trait you love most about yourself? We all have unique qualities that define us, and we want to hear about yours! Share in the comments below what you value most about yourself and why it’s significant to you.

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