Harper Lee, the author of novel ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ and the sequel, ‘Go Set a Watchman’ has died at the age of 89. Until this past year, Lee’s success was based on one novel but that was all that she needed to be awarded a Pulitzer prize, and the presidential medal of freedom. TKAM was a defining novel that addressed the racial troubles in the American South that has been read by millions around the world.
I’m sure that it was on the reading list for many of you in high school for English. While I did not appreciate the book when I was first forced to read it, I loved and appreciated it 100x more once I chose to read it on my own will, and not forced to do weekly assignments based on the book. In memory of Harper Lee, here are eight life lessons that we all learned from To Kill a Mockingbird:
- Perspective is key
You don’t know people’s struggles, back story, or why a person is the way they are. Just like Atticus Finch, we cannot judge people based on stereotypes, or looks. We need to take time to get to know people, and we should never judge anyone solely based on the word of others.
- Stick to your beliefs
A lesson that Scout and Jem found hard but is so important in this day and age. Don’t follow what is “popular” or “cool”, and don’t hide your beliefs or belittle your thoughts because it is not the standard. Stick to your beliefs, and stand up for what you think is right. What is right may not always be easy but at the end – your conscious will thank you for sticking to who you are. The most courageous thing that someone can do is to stand up for what is right.
- Equality
The entire novel is based on the lack of equality, and how it needs to be remedied. It’s 2016 – this lesson should not have to be repeated constantly but unfortunately, there are still some people who do not get that everyone is human being and equal regardless of their gender, sex, or financial status. Everyone’s worth is the same, and each being should be treated equally.
- Respect
It is a basic human right that everyone is entitled too. The same way that Attitcus always addresses Mayella as ma’am, everyone should be shown courtesy and respect. You may not always receive the same attitude back but it is important to remain calm when others are rude to you. Treat others with the respect that you would like to be treated with.
- Integrity & Modesty
Atticus was a role model – he was the same person wherever he went, and did not boast about his knowledge or belittle others. It is great to be proud of our achievements but don’t let that take over your life. Led your life with integrity and humble yourself. Modesty will always trump flashiness in life.
- Don’t Destroy what is Beautiful
In the words of Atticus Finch, “it is a sin to kill a mockingbird”. Why? Because mockingbirds are creatures who do no harm, and only creae beauty with its song. We should not destroy the innocent, naïve, and the beauty of life but rather, we should protect them with all that we have.
- Societal Change is Slow
While the outcome of the trial was not how Atticus would have liked it to end, something to note is that the jury deliberated the decision. Change is slow, and while we may not see immediate results, it is important to keep working to change the world into a better place.
- Never Give Up
In life, there will be many setbacks and criticisms just like Atticus Finch faced but that is no reason for you to give up. Be sure to always follow your heart, and do good in the world. There will always be people who try to bring you down but it is up to you to overcome these challenges.
Harper Lee will be forever missed but generations for years to come will be able to honor her and celebrate her accomplishment by carrying out what has been taught in To Kill A Mockingbird.
Featured image via “To Kill a Mockingbird” by ups2006 / CC BY 2.0
