Last year I wrote about the three Presidents that Forrest met at the White House. To celebrate this year’s President’s Day, let’s take a closer look at Forrest’s first White House visit when he met President Kennedy.
Here’s how Forrest described his experience: “Now, the real good thing about meeting the President of the United States is the food.
“They put you in this little room with just about anything you’d want to eat or drink. And since number one, I wasn’t hungry, but thirsty…
” … and number two, they was free, I musta drank me about fifteen Dr Peppers.”
Now the memorable and humorous punch line occurs in the very next scene as Forrest shakes hands with JFK and mentions his need to, ahemm … relieve himself.
Let’s look more deeply at Forrest’s exact words, and some lessons we all can benefit from by their simplicity. And I’ll conclude by comparing those lessons to a free opportunity that exists in today’s world
First Forrest says, “Now, the real good thing about meeting the President of the United States is the food.”
Forrest didn’t mention the honor of actually meeting the leader of the free world. He didn’t talk about the grandeur and splendor of touring the White House. And he didn’t even seem to care much about being on “a thing called the All-American team.” Forrest was simply grateful for the food.
Next Forrest said, “They put you in this little room with just about anything you’d want to eat or drink. And since number one, I wasn’t hungry, but thirsty …”
Forrest knew the difference between being hungry and thirsty. Now, that might not seem like a big deal, but do you instinctively reach for food when it’s presented? Do you give any thought to whether it’s something you even want? Or need? Incidentally, in your brain, the hypothalamus recognizes hunger and thirst … and they’re right near each other. Many times, people will eat something when they’re actually thirsty.
Forrest concludes with, “… and number two, they was free, I musta drank me about fifteen Dr Peppers.” We all love free stuff. Forrest was no different than the rest of us. He was apparently just a little thirstier than the average White House visitor.
Here is what’s both ironic and instructional.
Forrest wasn’t so impressed by the ceremonial pomp to be distracted from his real needs.
Forrest knew what he liked, knew what he wanted, and wasn’t tempted by what was openly offered.
Forrest knew a good deal when he saw it … and free is a great deal!
Are you overly impressed by pomp?
Are you clear on your real needs?
Are you certain about your likes and wants?
Are you taking life?s free deals when they?re offered?
Consider that the internet has created a wealth of information for learning and creating new opportunities. And it’s free! It simply costs your time and energy.
My guess is that Forrest would be drinking this free knowledge in vente size.
Next Blog Title: A Visit with an Old Friend … 24 Years Later
Next Blog Date: February 24, 2011