Know when to break your rules.

“Sometimes, to survive, we must become more than we were programmed to be.” Roz, The Wild Robot 

Jack got me really into The Wild Robot this weekend. I’ve seen the movie three times in less than 36 hours. Fortunately, I’m a big fan.

The film follows the story of a robot called ROZZUM Unit 7134, aka Roz. While programmed to only think, Roz begins to feel. It's through unexpected connections that new parts of Roz come alive. She begins to understand and feel love. It changes her, and how she sees everything around her.

Roz: How do you know if you love something… someone?
Fink: If you do, you should probably tell them.
Roz: What if it’s too late?

In the movie, Roz is is also conflicted about whether to stay where she feels love, or go back to where she thinks she belongs - with other robots. Survival, as the movie shows, is about realizing we belong where our hearts are. It’s through action rooted in love and kindness that we not only survive, but we come alive. This often starts with facing ourselves (our programming), knowing what we want, and creating change. Here we can grow in ways our minds never thought possible.

The film reminds us that the way forward, when chosen with love, is rarely easy. Yet, the path through love is always clear. There are times to let go. There are also times to break your rules, to fight for what your heart wants.