It was one of those days when I was just doing the usual — taking the trash cans out to the end of the driveway. You know, the mundane chore we all have to do. But as I was wheeling that second can to the curb, a car screeched to a halt in front of my house. Out steps none other than John Wick himself. Yes, that John Wick. He looked around, clearly needing to hide out for a bit to let the bad guys catch up. After all, it’s John Wick; he’s nothing if not fair.
This was a golden opportunity. Not just to check off taking out the trash for the week but to pick the brain of the man, the myth, the legend. As someone who has faced down some of the most brutal foes in the cinematic universe, John’s got to have some wisdom that I could apply to my own Mental Health Warrior journey.
So, I decided to seize the moment, and boy, did I learn a lot. You see, the Mental Health Warrior Program I created, based on my struggles with Bipolar, Alcoholism, Anxiety Disorders, and PTSD, actually has a lot in common with what drives John. I was eager to listen to the lessons he had to offer.
Lesson 1: Grief as a Driving Force
John’s Story: The first movie opens with John mourning the death of his beloved wife, Helen. She leaves him a final gift, a puppy named Daisy, to help him cope with his grief. When Daisy is tragically killed, John’s grief morphs into righteous fury. But it’s not just about revenge; it’s about honoring the memory of his wife and the love they shared.
My Lesson:
When I listened to John talk about how he channeled his grief, it struck a chord. I’ve had my own battles with grief, whether from personal losses or the sense of despair that can come from mental health struggles. John’s lesson? Don’t hide from grief—use it. By acknowledging my pain, I’ve been able to harness that energy to push forward. Instead of letting grief drown me, I let it fuel my recovery.
Your Turn:
If you’ve faced loss, don’t try to suppress it. Acknowledge it, feel it, and then let it drive you forward. Grief can be a powerful motivator, giving you the push you need to take action and make meaningful changes in your life. Let it honor your experiences and the people you’ve lost, transforming it into a catalyst for personal growth.
Lesson 2: Loyalty to Friends
John’s Story: Throughout the series, John relies on the loyalty of his friends, like Winston and the Bowery King. Despite the risks, they support him because they know John values their friendship deeply.
My Lesson:
John didn’t get through his battles alone, and neither did I. When I was struggling with my own mental health challenges, I leaned heavily on my support network. My friends, family, and even our cats were my Winston and Bowery King. John taught me that loyalty isn’t just about sticking together during the good times—it’s about being there when the going gets tough.
Your Turn:
Build and nurture your own support system. Whether it’s friends, family, or professionals, having people who are loyal to you—and who you are loyal to—makes all the difference. Don’t be afraid to reach out when you need help. Just like John, surround yourself with people who’ve got your back no matter what.
Lesson 3: The Love for His Dog
John’s Story: After losing Daisy, John adopts another dog. This new companion becomes a symbol of John’s hope and humanity, a reminder that even in the darkest times, there’s still something worth fighting for.
My Lesson:
We all need something to anchor us, especially when we’re going through tough times. For John, it was his dog. For me, it’s been my commitment to the Mental Health Warrior Program and the belief that I can help others. John reminded me that even when everything seems bleak, there’s always something—or someone—worth holding onto.
Your Turn:
Find your anchor! It could be a pet, a hobby, or a cause you’re passionate about. Let it remind you of what’s worth fighting for, even when the odds are stacked against you. This anchor can keep you grounded and give you the strength to keep moving forward, no matter how tough things get.
Embracing Emotions: The Tough Guy’s Secret Weapon
So, what’s the real secret behind John Wick’s toughness? It’s not just his impressive combat skills or his relentless determination—it’s his ability to embrace his emotions and use them as a source of strength. By acknowledging his grief, valuing his friendships, and holding onto what he loves, John Wick becomes more than just a fighter; he becomes a symbol of resilience and emotional depth.
Posing the Question
Now, let’s bring it back to you. If we want to be tough and build real connections, shouldn’t we follow John Wick’s example? While it’s easy to idolize the tough exterior, it’s the emotional depth that truly makes someone strong. John Wick’s ability to embrace his emotions is what makes him a beloved character and a formidable force. It’s not just about being a relentless fighter; it’s about being human.
The Full Picture of Strength
In a world that often tells us to suppress our emotions, John Wick stands out as a reminder that true strength comes from within. By embracing our emotions, we can build deeper connections and find the resilience to face life’s toughest challenges. So next time you watch a John Wick movie, remember: it’s not just the bullets and brawls that make him unstoppable; it’s his emotions.
So, here’s the challenge: embrace your inner John Wick. Not just the guns and the suits, but the grief, the loyalty, and the love. Because in the end, that’s what makes us truly strong. So become a Mental Health Warrior, embracing your emotions and become a force to be reckoned with! Just like John Wick!
Bruce Schutter
(Creator of the Mental Health Warrior Program and Challenge Coin)
Comments