Going the Distance

I believe Rocky Balboa is perhaps one of the premiere thinkers of the past two generations. Oh sure, he doesn't have great grammar and he wouldn't know the difference between Erasmus and Locke (I don't either come to think of it), but the guy has life figured out. Need proof? Read this quote from the latest movie:

"Let me tell you something you already know. The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It is a very mean and nasty place and it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain't how hard you hit; it's about how hard you can get hit, and keep moving forward. How much you can take, and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done. Now, if you know what you're worth, then go out and get what you're worth. But you gotta be willing to take the hit, and not pointing fingers saying you ain't where you are because of him, or her, or anybody. Cowards do that and that ain't you. You're better than that! "

Wow! Now that's what I'm talking about.

I can't believe how truly great Rocky really is. The character has such a simplistic approach to life that just works. He believes in people. He believes in good. He believes in hard work and going the distance. And really thats all it takes. The guy works hard; he's generally good to everyone he comes into contact with, including the competition, and people love him for it.

What's more, he knows what love is. Now call me your stereotypical guy, but I think one of the best portraits of love in movies is that of him and Adrian. Probably just about every girl I know right now is gagging themselves, but the Rocky series portrays a true lasting love. Its not based off of anything magical except for two people who believe in each other and who help each other out. After you get past all of the big-screen hype, that is what it is about.

If you need a bit of inspiration in life, then do yourself a favor: go see Rocky Balboa. That includes you ladies!