“Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” is one of the most popular and quotable movies of all time. It’s also one of the most inspirational.
In this 1986 comedy, a bright, quirky teenager (Ferris, played by Matthew Broderick) cuts school and leads his friends on a day of adventure in downtown Chicago. They attend a Cubs game, visit a museum, eat lunch at a fancy restaurant, and even end up on a float in a parade.
Though Ferris is driven mostly by the thrill of skipping school and not getting caught, he shows he is also wise beyond his years.
Through clever monologues and direct appeals to the audience, he sprinkles quotable life lessons along the way that serve as good reminders for young and old alike. Here are a few:
“The question isn’t ‘what are we going to do’, the question is ‘what aren’t we going to do?” Be bold, be creative and think big. As Nelson Mandela was famous for saying, ‘There is no passion to be found playing small – in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.’
“First of all, you can never go too far.” Even when seemingly trapped or nearly caught, Ferris never gives up. He is persistent and calmly works through the possible solutions. Where there’s a will, there’s a way.
“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in awhile, you could miss it.” Even when we feel stuck on the work/life treadmill, it’s important to jump off and enjoy the scenery that’s whizzing by us.
Ferris tackles his day off with child-like enthusiasm and curiosity. He shows his friends how to unwind and make the most of their experiences. And he reminds us all that it’s important to have fun along the way.
Have a great week.
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