Coming home recently on a long flight, I had the chance to watch the classic film Dead Poet’s Society.

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One of the late Robin William’s most poignant films, it tells the story of a charismatic teacher who unleashes the passions of students at a New England Prep School.

Among the most affected students in the film is a shy boy named Todd Anderson. The younger brother of a highly charismatic and successful student, he does not read or speak in public.

He does not share what he is writing and thinking. The other students see him as stupid and boring.

Through poetry and love, Williams breaks through Todd’s barrier and brings out the passionate feelings inside of him. We see a depth and intelligence that had been hidden away.

What Beauty is Hidden Inside Us? 

So many of us have an unexposed depth and passion inside us. We need to find ways to bring them out. We also need to look for it in others.

How do we do this? Instead of judging quickly, we explore patiently and lovingly. Instead of rushing to classify and categorize, we listen to understand and appreciate.

At its best a religious community gives us a place where we do that. Where we can look for the beauty and depth in one another.

It is a place without judgment, animated by the idea that each of us is created in the image of God. It is a place where we open up our eyes and hearts to truths not easily seen.

What Love Does

A nineteenth-century rabbi taught this truth to his students. They had come to him to complain upon a man who frenetically moved his arms and head around during the worship service. They said he was detracting from the decorum and sanctity of the synagogue.

The rabbi said to them: “You must never criticize a man for excitement during prayer. You never know what storm is raging inside of him.”

We do not know what storms are hidden inside of one other. Love is the way we begin to look.