Some important life lessons to learn from “The Shawshank Redemption”

Priyadarshini Kaul Mishra
11 February, 2021
2 mins ago

Fear can hold you a prisoner; hope can set you free.

The Shawshank Redemption is one of the most loved movies of all times. This is a movie about perseverance, hope and freedom. Based on a short story by Stephen King named ”Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption”. The movie follows the story of inmates Andy and Red and their journey to freedom. It comes out as a touching tale told with great empathy and gentleness. There are many life lessons which the film gives out very subtly.

Life is unfair

In the movie, Andy is falsely accused and is sentenced to life sentences. He is bullied by prison inmates and is miserable without a fault of his own. But that does not stop him from trying again and again. He fights with all his might and at the end is victorious. So, life is never going to be fair. You would encounter troubles now and then. But instead of sulking and crying. Stand up and fight.

Hard work and persistence pays off

Andy has to go through a lot of hardships, but his hard work and persistence paid off eventually. Be it writing a letter per week for six years to get books for library prison or waiting for 20 years to escape. Andy taught us all the patience and hard work would get you results come what may.

3. Respect others

Though Andy was in prison where he was surrounded by convicts and criminals, that does not stop him from respecting his fellow inmates and guards. He is always helping someone unconditionally. That is what we should follow in life too. Respect every one whether they are up in the hierarchy or low. Remember what you give eventually comes around.

Don’t be a conventional thinker

Sometimes to solve a problem, you must think out of the box. You won’t find answers to life’s trouble in any textbook. Like Andy in the movie uses the poster of Rita Hayworth and afterwards Rachel Welch to hide the tunnel. He then smartly makes up a fictitious person which helps him to abscond.

Have good friends by your side

Always valve and treasure friendships in your life. They are with you when the world turns it’s back to you. In the film, Andy and Red are friends, and nothing and no circumstances could change that.

Which one is your favourite?