“WILSON!” January 19, 2013
Posted by nrhatch in Books & Movies, Life Balance, People.Tags: Cast Away, Purpose, Raison D'etre, Tom Hanks, volleyball, Wilson
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Iglot has much to be thankful for ~ plenty of food, comfy clothing, and suitable shelter.
But he isn’t satisfied.
His days have an easy rhythm to them ~ gather and prepare food, engage in physical and mental exercise, repair and maintain his hut, mend his clothes, sleep, etc.
But he isn’t satisfied.
Like Tom Hanks in Cast Away, Iglot lacks companionship.
Wilson the volleyball (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Hanks solved his problem by creating a companion . . . Wilson.
With Wilson by his side, Hanks feels less lonely.
He enjoys having “someone” to converse and argue with, even if verbal responses are never forthcoming.
When Wilson, his steadfast friend, floats off into the sunset, as volleyballs caught in the surf are wont to do, Hanks grieves the loss. He is bereft.
Why?
Did he desire an audience for his accomplishments? Did he seek accolades, admiration, and applause from an inert leather ball?
Or did Wilson represent something deeper still . . . a purpose? A reason to be?
If Iglot is the last man standing, with no hope of ever having connections to create for or dependents to care for, what might cause him to keep putting one foot in front of the other?
Why continue his journey from cradle to grave?
What would be the point? Why should he strive to stay alive?
Is being connected to “the source of all things” enough?
Or do we need just a bit more?
“Wilson!!! You’re back!!!”
Aah . . . that’s better!
Related posts: Like A Good Neighbor (Agrigirl’s Blog) * The Lone Woman of San Nicolas Island (BreatheLighter)
