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3 Lessons from WONKA for Young Christians

Writer's picture: joshuasamsonhobdayjoshuasamsonhobday

Updated: Jan 1, 2024

Get ready for a chocolate-dripping, imagination-soaring adventure with the new movie "WONKA" (released in December 2023). This prequel to the classic "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" takes us back to the early days of the enigmatic candymaker, revealing his origins and the whimsical world he builds. For young Christians seeking guidance in their faith journey, WONKA offers unexpected insights that can inspire and enrich their life journey. Let's delve into three lessons that young Christians can glean from this cinematic masterpiece. Don't worry! If you are planning to watch the movie, be assured that there are no spoilers in this article.



This prequel to the classic "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" follows a young Willy Wonka (played by Timothée Chalamet) as he dreams of opening his own chocolate shop.

Bullied for his eccentricities, Willy finds solace in creating fantastical sweets and contraptions. Willy Wonka, a determined dreamer aspiring to open a chocolate shop in a European city, faces adversity when deceived by Mrs. Scrubitt. Forced into labor at a laundry, he befriends others trapped in the scheme, uncovering a plot by the "Chocolate Cartel." Together, they expose the Cartel's corruption, liberate Noodle, and disrupt their operations. The story concludes with Wonka fulfilling promises, creating a new chocolate empire, and unwrapping a poignant message from his late mother about the importance of sharing our resources and joy with others.


1. Dare to Dream


The movie reminds us that God created us with unique talents and imaginations. Just like Willy, we shouldn't be afraid to dream big and pursue our passions, even if others don't understand. Our creativity can be a powerful tool for good, bringing joy and wonder to the world around us. In the face of financial challenges and the devious intentions of Mrs. Scrubitt, Wonka's resilience shines through. His unwavering commitment to his dream, despite setbacks, reflects a spirit that young Christians can draw upon in their own lives.


The narrative unfolds with Wonka facing the consequences of an ill-fated contract, leading him into the clutches of Mrs. Scrubitt's laundry/boarding house. It is within this seemingly mundane setting that the importance of having a vision takes center stage. Despite the oppressive circumstances, Wonka befriends fellow captives, including the resourceful Noodle, and together they navigate a path toward achieving their dreams of freedom and building the greatest chocolate factory in the world.


2. Kindness is the Secret Ingredient


Wonka faced a pivotal moment when the prospect of escape from Mrs. Scrubbit's clutches presented itself. The allure of pursuing his chocolaty dreams could have easily tempted him to embark on a solitary journey to success. Yet, in a remarkable display of selflessness, Wonka chose a different path. Prioritizing the freedom and well-being of his fellow captives over personal ambitions, Wonka returned to the laundry/boarding house and worked towards their collective freedom. His selfless act unveils the transformative power of kindness, a force capable of turning the pages of a story from one of individual pursuit to a collective journey toward liberation.


In a world often driven by individual aspirations and personal gain, Wonka's choice serves as a gentle reminder to be kind. It speaks to the essence of humanity—the inclination to extend a hand to those in need, even at the expense of one's own dreams. The narrative unfolds as a testament to the idea that genuine kindness is not a hindrance to personal success but rather the secret ingredient that elevates success to a higher, more meaningful plane.


3. Hard Work is the Key to Success


The narrative unfolds as Wonka, armed with imagination, ideas, and an ensemble of friends, channels his efforts into crafting chocolatey inventions. It's a testament to the transformative power of hard work, where dreams take shape through the meticulous application of one's gifts and resources. Wonka's commitment to success is not merely confined to the creative process; it extends to the arduous tasks of advertising, selling, and ultimately building a factory. In each step, the narrative echoes a fundamental truth: success is not a passive endeavor but a product of persistent labor and unwavering determination.


In the end, as Wonka's factory stands as a testament to dreams realized, the essence of the tale crystallizes – hard work is the key that unlocks the doors to success. It's a timeless lesson echoing through the corridors of imagination, reminding us that aspirations materialize not through mere wishes but through the labor of hands willing to invest time, energy, and creativity.


Conclusion


In the magical confectionery of Willy Wonka's world, we unwrap not just chocolatey delights but timeless lessons. The art of visionary dreaming, the sweetness of selfless kindness, and the alchemy of relentless hard work are the golden ingredients that flavor the recipe of success. As we savor these lessons, let us craft our own narratives, where dreams are envisioned, kindness is shared, and hard work becomes the golden ticket to a life rich in chocolatey achievements. In the spirit of Wonka, may our visions be grand, our hearts kind, and our hands diligent, creating a symphony of success that echoes through the corridors of history.


About Desamfm


"Desamfm is an online platform catering to Christian youngsters aged 13 to 35. It offers a variety of multimedia resources, including videos, blogs, and podcasts created by Christian creatives. Covering topics like faith, relationships, and personal growth, DESAMFM provides an interactive space for young Christians to connect, share experiences, and seek guidance. With a user-friendly interface and regular updates, it ensures fresh and relevant content. DESAMFM serves as a valuable resource, combining Christian values with the interests of today's youth. Join the community and embark on a faith-filled journey together."

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