A Father's Journey: Finding Inspiration in Fictional Characters

Have you ever seen an alarming amount of yourself in a fictional character? If so, what was your reaction? For me, the fictional character Will Hunting from the film Good Will Hunting resonated deeply with my youth and my path to becoming a better person.

From an Abnormal Intelligence to a Need for Help

Will Hunting is not just any ordinary character; his brilliance, coupled with a troubled past, mirrors a part of my own experience. At a young age, I was seen as unusually intelligent but was let down by the system. Instead of nurturing my gifts, the educational program was slashed, leaving me to navigate the world on my own. Unlike Will, who found solace and guidance in a therapist, I had the support of my family, who helped me break free from my arrogance.

As I grew older, I dedicated myself to helping others who shared my challenges, much like Will's transformation from a resentful and needy individual to a capable and kind person. Today, I have had a strong hand in raising two nephews and two nieces, and I find a sense of fulfillment in giving back. But a father's role is much more profound, and I often think about the empathy and guidance provided by To Kill a Mockingbird's Atticus Finch.

The Ideal Father: Atticus Finch

Atticus Finch is the father figure that I always wanted to be, and the father I always wanted to have. He is a symbol of kindness, patience, and respect, embodying the qualities that any parent would strive for. In To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus never screams at his two kids or tells them they are bad; instead, he sets an example through his own behavior, showing them the value of goodness and empathy.

The children, Jem and Scout, regard their neighbor Boo Radley with fear and mockery. However, rather than scolding them, Atticus sits them down and explains the difficult journey that the Radley family has faced. He inspires them to be better by setting high expectations, just as he does with his kids.

My father, although a lawyer, found it challenging to be Atticus Finch all the time, partly due to the larger family. Balancing the expectations and pressures of being a father to five children, he did his best to emulate the qualities of Atticus. Even though he couldn't always be the ideal father, his efforts in guiding us with kindness and respect have stayed with me.

Reflections on My Own Journey

Today, I look back on my journey and realize that becoming a better version of myself wasn't just about me. It was about the example I set for others, including my nieces and nephews. I firmly believe that Atticus Finch is the kind of father I would want to be, and I aspire to raise my nieces and nephews with the same values of kindness, patience, and respect that Atticus instilled in his.

Life is unpredictable, and while I have not yet fathered my own children, I still have a chance to make a difference. Whether it is through parenting or mentoring others, I remain committed to being a positive influence and finding inspiration in the characters that best represent the qualities I admire.