Four Reasons Why Life is Truly Like a Box of Chocolate

Marlita’s Atlas
3 min readSep 7, 2020
Photo by Monique Carrati on Unsplash

It’s been twenty-five years since the iconic film Forrest Gump smashed records at the box-office. “Life is like a box of chocolate. You never know what you’re gonna get.” remains the classic motto from the blockbuster that beautifully wrapped up the film’s message.

It’s also the perfect catchphrase to describe the world we’re living in today.

When you indulge in a piece of chocolate, chances are you’re excited about what you’re going to taste. But, it’s possible you’ll be disappointed when the candy turns out to be a mushy and gooey mess.

Even though things appear good on the outside, there’s no way of telling what’s beneath the surface. However, by choosing to respond differently or interpret things in a way that makes sense, you may experience bursts of pure delight — like when you enjoy the perfect piece of chocolate.

These days, it’s understandable to have a bitter taste in your mouth. With all the uncertainty in the world, you might feel as if you’re a kid in a candy store: overwhelmed and unsure about all that’s around you.

Although we’re all currently dealing with some ‘gray’ in our lives, there’s still room for sweet moments. Let’s look further at some pleasant surprises that have possibly popped up (or can pop up) for you during this heavy time.

Making Space for Others

Think back to a year ago. Did you scramble to place an overdue call to a friend on your way to a meeting? Since we’ve all been forced to slow down, nowadays, you probably feel less pressed to have a catchup with your pal.

Instead of cramming in a call, you can now spend quality time giving your loved one undivided attention. By being intentional, you’re able to fully focus on your relationship, rather than rush to squeeze in a chat while in the midst of doing something else.

Bonding with someone near and dear to your heart is the ultimate form of human connection. There’s nothing sweeter than that!

Find Things that Melt Your Heart

M & M’s melting in your mouth is pretty awesome. Things that melt your heart are also special because they last longer than convenient store chocolate.

Fostering an animal, cooking a delicious meal, saying hi to strangers, helping out your neighbor, and doing things that bring you joy all trigger endorphins; like chocolate.

Meaningful experiences are reminders of what matters. So, in times like these, remember to find and do things that warm your heart.

Give Yourself a Break

Taking time to pause and recharge is so important. Like that KitKat bar slogan — give yourself a break!

There’s sweetness when you reflect and reevaluate your priorities. By slowing down from going through the motions, opportunities arise and focus shifts.

So, pause, rest, and listen to your body. After all, self-care should be a sweet treat that you give yourself daily.

There’s no Wrong Way

Reese’s Peanut Butter cups got it right when they said, “There’s no wrong way to eat a Reese’s.” Anyway you bite into it, it’ll taste delicious.

Creativity is just as yummy as a Reese’s. Regardless of how you approach it, it’s still a work of art — like eating a Reese’s in a variety of ways.

With so much gray and uncertainty in the world, there’s value and sweetness tapping into creativity. Get going and let those creative juices flow!

In Sweetness, There’s Hope

Now’s the time to do what works and grab every opportunity that presents itself. They’re reminders that there’s so much good in the world — to both experience and taste.

Is there something that’s recently surprised you, like that piece of candy you picked from the box of chocolate?

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Marlita’s Atlas

Hi, I’m Marla. I write blogs on topics that matter, spark conversations, and inspire. Find me at marlitasatlas.com.