The Bullet Train we call LIFE
Life is a combination of fate, interconnectedness, the chaos of existence and some fun moments as well.
I hardly ever needed a film to teach me that little life lesson. However, on reflection and a Third viewing — the movie hits hard. This 2022 caper is surprisingly easy to watch and while there are scenes of blood and gore — my takeaway from the flick was something altogether different.
LADYBUG = Tentomushi (てんとう虫) = GOOD LUCK.
That’s what we’d like to believe. However, in the film, Ladybug (the character- Brad Pitt ) repeatedly faces misfortunes and chaotic events despite being a “lucky charm.” Basically, life isn’t straightforward. Luck, like fate, can be unpredictable — try and look at the big picture — things will work out. Eventually.
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While Ladybug views himself as plagued by bad luck, the story unfolds into a series of misadventures. At the end the outcome is a good one, for himself and the others.
I picked up a few points here — patience and resilience in life. Luck comes in various formats and at various times. Not the way you “WISH” for it. Adapting to the environment and shifting your perspective keeps things moving forward, rather than sideways. Thriving in chaos is the specialty of the LADYBUG and there is a place for harmony and meaning in our environment.
No character in the movie is entirely good or evil, emphasising the gray areas we live in . People are morally complex. People are multifaceted, driven by both noble and flawed motives. These motives translate into actions with real world consequences.
We are all connected — somehow. Interconnectedness is a theme that plays out throughout life via a series of coincidences or planned actions. We don’t exist alone. So our actions have consequences for us and those connected to us and to those connected to them. The butterfly effect they call it.
Fate is not about just Accepting what happens to you, but making an effort to understand that all of the above points and your circumstances have brought you here today. Life is inherently unpredictable. So while we can plan and strive, we must also accept the twists and turns along the way. I’m not much of a gambling man. Are you?
Nothing in life or the film is really complete without a dash of humour. We need to find lightness or laughter even in dire situations. I’m not saying — laugh at someone. But you can always laugh at the way things turn out. This too shall pass.
So there’s fate, resilience, burden, and perspective.All interconnected. As long as you understand your purpose and play your role — your capacity to navigate this trail called life should be fun.
