How a children’s movie reveals happiness’s flaws

I’m a big animation fan.

Ever since I was a kid, I have been fascinated with the creativity and storytelling potential of the medium.

As the years go on and on, animation gets more recognition as the genuine art form it is.

And I couldn’t be “happier.” 

(wink, wink)

Because more than just a way to keep the kids entertained, animated shows, shorts, and movies can convey some pretty meaningful themes.

Inside Out is a great example.

Getting Emotional

Inside Out is a 2015 movie from the animation studio Pixar. It follows a preteen girl named Riley who has recently moved to the other side of the country. What’s notable about the story is that it’s told primarily from the perspective of her emotions.

Namely, Joy and Sadness.

In the film, Joy is always trying to limit Sadness, believing that she’ll only make Riley feel worse. This ends up having the opposite effect, however, and by limiting Sadness, Riley is unable to healthily deal with and process her feelings. 

As a result, her mental and emotional health suffers.

Ultimately, Joy realizes that Sadness is an important part of life and one that helps people through difficult times. By allowing Riley to feel Sadness, she can process the hardship of moving to a new place and come out on the other side better.

This is important to consider as we tackle the topic of happiness this week.

“Don’t worry, be happy”

Focusing only on happiness (“Joy” in Inside Out) doesn’t account for the way life works. We can pursue happiness, sure, but life isn’t always going to go well. Difficulty will come, and when it does, forcing a smile won’t help.

Yet this is how Westerners have been told to approach life. We want to avoid bad feelings and only cling to the good ones.

We want happiness and won’t settle for anything less.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying we should reject happiness. It's a wonderful emotion but there’s a time and a place for it. A full life consists of a plethora of emotions, emotions expressed at the right time.

You don't need to always be happy.

Life is more than chasing what “feels good.”

Jesus was well aware of this and made as much known in His teachings.

We’ll return to that tomorrow but for now, be blessed.

Jon,

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