The Shawshank Redemption1994

This is without a doubt one of the greatest stories of all time. Perfectly executed and incredibly crafted. Undoubtedly influential. While a specific indictment on the modern slavery of America’s incarceration system, it is still widely relatable to most people’s ambitions, dreams, and hopes.  While perhaps not literally imprisoned, many feel trapped, caged, and chained to their day-to-day lives. Institutionalized, never imagining a way out or a world outside. Never looking up. Hopeless.  And I would like to say that if we, like Andy, keep plugging away, working hard day after day, year after year, we can eventually escape. But for most, that simply is not possible. Whether by will or by design, many will not escape the horrors of the systematic corruption that plagues our world and our nation today.  Perhaps there will be a great revival. Maybe good men will once again strive to help their fellow man. And maybe one day, we can all work to lift each other up.  I hope.  “I guess it comes down to a simple choice, really. Get busy living, or get busy dying.”