Richard Linklater's Boyhood: The Purpose Of Life

Several discouraging aspects of life, which corrode motivation and inspiration, leave many pondering the reason of existence and purpose. Past regrets, monotony in daily activities, and numerous other facets contribute to a sense of hopelessness and worthlessness that takes root in the minds of countless people. These days, this mindset is often portrayed on a national, or sometimes even global, scale through headlining films such as Boyhood. Filmed over the span of twelve years, the camera so beautifully captures the way the actors aged and changed. Directed by Richard Linklater, Boyhood shadows the journey of self-discovery through the eyes of a little boy the viewers literally watch grow up on screen. As Mason matures from a child to a man,

According to the movie, the human race occurred by chance and each person must create his own end goal and motivate himself to reach that point. Mason Sr. explains his uncertainty of life’s point by saying, “Everything? What 's the point? I mean, I sure as sh** don 't know. Neither does anybody else, okay? We 're all just winging it, you know? The good news is, you 're feeling stuff. And you 've got to hold on to that.” Mason, and everyone around him, goes through life hoping that maybe if they search enough they can find lasting happiness, or leave an impact on the world. However, in Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus gives the human race His final command, ““Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age,” (NLT). Ecclesiastes 12:13 also testifies the purpose of living; “That’s the whole story. Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone’s duty,” (NLT). Essentially, nothing in this life except for God will truly give people joy. Oblivious to the fact that the human race has, in fact, been ordained to serve the Lord, most people’s “purpose” revolves around themselves and their