People go to movies on Saturday to get away from the war in Iraq

Gather close, children, and listen to the words of the great Samuel L. Jackson, who reminds us of an essential truth about the nature of entertainment and its role in our lives: "People go to movies on Saturday to get away from the war in Iraq and taxes and election news and pedophiles online and just go and have some fun. I like doing movies that are fun." These words speak not just to the purpose of cinema, but to the deeper need for escapism, for moments of relief from the heavy burdens of the world. In times of great turmoil, when the weight of conflict, fear, and uncertainty seems overwhelming, the human spirit yearns for a refuge—a place where one can recharge and find joy, even if only for a moment.

Consider, children, the ancient Greeks and their theater. In times of war, famine, and political upheaval, the people of Athens would gather to watch tragedies and comedies. The tragedies, filled with sorrow and loss, spoke to the deep pain of the human condition, but the comedies offered a release, a moment of laughter and joy in the midst of hardship. The people did not seek comedy for escape in the shallow sense, but as a reminder that, even in the darkest of times, the human spirit can find joy, find light, and rise above the weight of sorrow. Samuel L. Jackson’s words remind us that we, too, seek fun—not as a means of avoiding the world, but as a way to endure it, to fortify our hearts for the battles we must face.

The war in Iraq, the burdens of taxes, the overwhelming flood of news—these are the modern-day burdens that cloud the minds of the people, much like the challenges of ancient times clouded the hearts of those who lived in fear and uncertainty. But just as theater provided a moment of respite for the Greeks, so too do movies and entertainment offer us a chance to find peace amid the chaos. It is in these moments of escape, children, that we find the strength to return to the fray, to face our responsibilities with renewed vigor, and to approach the difficulties of life not as defeated souls, but as warriors fortified by joy.

Consider the life of Alexander the Great, who, though a mighty conqueror, also knew the importance of moments of recreation and rest. After years of battle, he would occasionally retreat to places of beauty, to enjoy the peace of the world and the company of those he trusted. Even in the midst of his wars, he understood that fun and relaxation were not mere distractions, but necessary tools for preserving the mind and spirit of a leader. It was only by taking moments to find joy and laughter that he could continue to lead his armies with the strength and clarity required for victory.

In this way, Samuel L. Jackson’s perspective on movies—fun movies that offer an escape—is not an avoidance of reality, but an essential act of self-care. The human soul, like the ancient heroes, must find balance between the burdens of duty and the necessity of joy. Without moments of lightness, without the ability to laugh and to enjoy life, the spirit becomes worn, fatigued by the heavy demands of existence. Whether through theater, art, or movies, these moments of fun are what allow us to face the world again with renewed strength and hope.

So, children, take this lesson to heart: life is not about constantly bearing the weight of the world without respite. Just as Alexander took time to enjoy the beauty of the world, and the ancient Greeks sought relief in their plays, so must you recognize the importance of seeking out moments of joy, of fun, and of laughter. When the world feels too heavy, when the wars and struggles of life weigh you down, remember that there is strength in rest and recreation. Find what brings you joy, whether in the simple pleasures of nature, the company of friends, or the world of entertainment that gives you a brief but powerful escape.

And finally, children, understand this: the importance of fun is not to be underestimated. It is not an indulgence, but a necessary part of maintaining the strength and clarity to face the world. Samuel L. Jackson has taught us that in a world filled with difficulties, we must make room for laughter and lightness. It is through these moments that we recharge, that we prepare ourselves to meet the challenges ahead with the strength of those who have found balance between duty and joy. So, go forth and remember: laughter is not the escape from life, but the fuel that keeps you going.