Soul Surfer - Persuasive Essay/Speech

I ask you this; if given the chose, would you choose faith over fear? Love over hate? Triumph over failure? Extraordinary over average? Bethany Hamilton, just thirteen at the time, lost her left arm when a fourteen-foot tiger shark ripped it off while she was surfing with friends in Hawaii. Soul Surfer, the inspirational tale brings us into Hamilton’s life and recovery process after the attack. With nothing but positive messages about going against all odds and overcoming the toughest of obstacles, an enticingly unique storyline, and captivating characters; Soul Surfer is a must watch. This film has many positive lessons to be taken to heart throughout the film. However, the strongest messages are that with a bit of perspective and the support of our friends and family. You can make it through the worst of tragedies. Our family and friends are often our support system. With them, anything becomes possible. Tom Hamilton, Bethany’s father (played by Dennis Quaid) tells Bethany when she is ready to quit surfing after the attack; “That shark didn’t kill you, you are still here, still alive, with a family who loves you”. (1) Bethany may have lost an arm, but that is not to say she has lost everything. Throughout this uphill battle, Bethany has her friends and family there for her to help her get back on the board with confidence and to turn surfing back into the joyful hobby she initially fell in love with. Similarly, perspective is everything. It is our outlook on life and how we are able to see and eventually come to terms with life’s simplest and toughest decisions. During one of the towns youth nights, Sarah Hill, the youth group’s pastor (played by Carrie Underwood) says “It can be hard to make sense of things when you are looking at them really close. The same is true in life, so if you are ever dealing with anything that is just too hard to handle, or does not seem to make much sense, get a new perspective.” (2) After the attack Bethany struggles in