I like to think that ideas and writing that gets you to think for yourself has far more influence on people than the use of force or violence. When you plant seeds of ideas, that others can think about and evaluate on their own, it takes root in the person’s mind and can become something big. And ideas can take people anywhere.
Think about all the people in this world who are willing to die for what they believe. Those beliefs came from somewhere. They were ideas of some kind that resonated within them and became so much part of who they are, they would die for it. And they teach it to others and spread those ideas, because they believe they mean something.
One of my favorite directors is Christopher Nolan. He is most known for writing and directing The Dark Knight trilogy. But he has written and directed many others that were almost released too early for their time because of the kinds of ideas that were espoused in the films. His movies like Interstellar, Momento, Inception and The Prestige all have ideas sprinkled throughout the film that make you think of things differently. They challenge you and make you question whether what you are seeing is reality. It’s powerful stuff.
Another place where written words impact us on a deep level is music. How is it that music certain songs can bring us back to a totally different time and place? Certain music instantly brings be back to my childhood or teenage years. The root it has taken in me, even decades ago, is still there, as strong as ever. It’s so potent that not only can I remember that time in my life vividly, but I can also feel it. And it is beautiful. It’s such a strong feeling for me, that if I am having a bad day, just listening to certain music from days passed helps reset my mind and I feel better.
Why is that we take so much comfort in religious texts? For many of us, we live by those words that are written. And we choose it willingly because those words and ideas have taken such a deep root inside us, it has become part of us.
What ideas have stayed with you? What do they mean to you?
