My Favourite Things is a song title from the famous movie “The Sound of Music”. If you have not seen the movie yet, then your life is completely unfulfilled. Originally it was a play, but in 1965 an American film studio made this masterpiece of a film. And I know what you are thinking… a film from 1965? But trust me it is totally worth the watch!
The movie touches upon universal themes of love, family, honour and perseverance. The story is set in Austria during World War II. So you can only imagine how those themes contrasts against the gloomy backdrop of a war.
Watch a clip of the song “My Favourite Things” here:
My Favourite Things
“Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens
Bright copper kettles and warm woollen mittens
Brown paper packages tied up with strings
These are a few of my favourite things
Cream coloured ponies and crisp apple streudels
Doorbells and sleigh bells and schnitzel with noodles
Wild geese that fly with the moon on their wings
These are a few of my favourite things
Girls in white dresses with blue satin sashes
Snowflakes that stay on my nose and eyelashes
Silver white winters that melt into springs
These are a few of my favourite things
When the dog bites
When the bee stings
When I’m feeling sad
I simply remember my favourite things
And then I don’t feel so bad”
The song’s purpose and lesson is to think about all your favourite things when you are scared or sad. This is a valuable life lesson for us in general. When we are stressed, in despair, angry, afraid or feel any negative emotion, we should also think about what makes us happy.
Now I have a task for you. I want you to make a list of all the things that makes you smile and laugh, the things that you are grateful for and things that makes you feel light, hopeful and free. I have given this a lot of thought and made a list myself. I will share with you a few of mine in a moment. This list is something that you should remind yourself of on a daily basis, until you do not even have to think of your list in order to alter your negative thoughts. Just imagine a world where we could prevent unnecessary anger, sadness or irritation. And even just on a personal level, it is nice to remind yourself of all the good things. So here are a few of my favourite things:
• The smell and sound of rain
• The sound of a cat purring
• Gelato’s ice cream
• Cello music
• Hugs
• Potato chips (‘slap’ chips)
• Cats!
Students of College SA, make your lists of favourite things and remind yourself of all the good things in your life, the things that you really enjoy, look forward to or appreciate. There is beauty and hope in reminding ourselves of what is good in our lives. And maybe you would be so bold to share with us some of your favourite things? I would love to hear them!
P.S. Do not forget to see the film The Sound of Music!
College SA Blog 