A while ago, the creators of Lost gave us a series of promotional clips called Lost Moments. If I remember correctly, they were scenes from upcoming episodes that were supposed to whet our appetite for more Lost and keep us excited about the show. They worked for me, and held my interest, but really didn’t do more than that.
Recently, I happened to be watching an episode called “The Lie” with my two sons. Usually, I wouldn’t do this. They are six and eight, and the show is little too violent and adult at times for children, in my opinion. However, they happened to walk in the room just before one of my favorite scenes of the series so far, and it’s one I thought they should see.
In the scene, the character of Hurley is obviously burdened with lying about what happened to him after he crashed on “the island.” His mother is concerned, because he is suddenly suspected of murder and she doesn’t know with what or who he is involved. He finally tells her the truth, in a scene that is both funny and touching. When he’s done, she says she doesn’t understand what he told her, but she believes him. I told my sons that they probably won’t ever have a story like that to tell, but that whatever is bothering them, they can share it with me, just like Hurley did with his Mom. I promised I would believe them and give them whatever help I could.
I’m sure that sounds hokey or cliché to some, and I hope it didn’t sound that way to them. More and more I’m finding these little teachable moments in things we see together, whether on TV or out shopping. I don’t expect every one to be life-changing for any of us. It’s just a way for me to use something I love as an example to my kids, and apply it to our real life. Who would’ve thought a little TV show like “Lost” could help a parent out? Stay tuned!
