Cover of The Bucket ListJack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman starred in a wonderful film in 2007 called The Bucket List. I remember crying for days after I watched it and it challenged me to think about my own mortality. I have been using the clip and the idea in my writing seminar ever since. Adolescents never think about their own mortality and why should they? They don't expect to "kick the bucket" for a very long time. But I have found this to be an extraordinary writing challenge for 12 and 13 year olds. Exactly what would they like to do before they die? At this age, seeing Lady Gaga or Justin Bieber may be high on their list but, when really challenged to look deep into their own souls, I find their answers are thought provoking and heart-warming. Many of them say they want to "write a novel" but, then again, this IS a writing seminar and they want a good grade so I guess sucking up to the teacher is not that bad of an idea. But, every once in a while, I read one of their lists and it takes my breath away. I don't often think of them as adults but (since they are so bright) they are often little adults in teenage bodies. They want to fly around the world, dance at Rockefeller Center, star in a Broadway play, or be a millionaire. They want to witness a miracle, go bungee jumping, or found a charity. Their aspirations are huge. They dream big. At times when I just want to get through the week and make it to Friday, these kids want to "tell everyone how much I care about them." (Hey, I don't make these things up-these are actually things from past buckets lists!) I hope they always dream big. We have a lot to learn from them. Here's my Bucket List:1. Para sail in the Caribbean (done)
2. Dance on the stairs of the Vatican (sounds disrespectful but I see joy in it)
3. Stay married 100 years (I'm at 39)
4. Zip line in Costa Rica (done)
5. Loose 30 pounds (no comment)
6. Witness a miracle (OK, I'm copying but I like her idea!)
7. Become a grandmother (done times 3)
8. Become a great grandmother (see how I am bargaining to live a long time)
9. Meet Morgan Freeman
10. See the Philadelphia Eagles win a Super Bowl (I can hope, can't I???)
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