I’m not entirely sure when it happened or how it happened, but I became a full-fledged fan of Robert Pattinson.  I can point to the exact moment I first “fell in love” with Brad Pitt and Matt Damon, but where Mr. Pattinson’s concerned, I have no idea.  But I know it happened because when I got word that the trailer for his new movie Water for Elephants was online I squealed excitedly then watched that sucker over and over again.  I just couldn’t get enough.

But it wasn’t just Mr. Pattinson’s famous brooding that captured my attention.  I was completely mesmerized by everything from the actors to the costumes to how the scenes nearly matched what I pictured in my head while reading the book.  The more I watched, the more my excitement grew for this movie…. and for seeing Rob in a tux. In the words of ZZ Top, “Every girl’s crazy ‘bout a sharp dressed man.” Well, at least this girl is.

Anyway, once I was able to pick my mouth up off the floor and push through my haze of excitement, I noticed these words weaved through stunning images of circus life and R-Patz:

“There is your path”

“There is your struggle”

“And there is your destiny”

To me, those words were spun as sweetly as cotton candy and carried more weight than a parade of elephants.  While I knew those statements specifically related to the story, I couldn’t help but think how they relate to our own stories as well.

Without giving anything away (which I can’t really do anyway since I haven’t finished reading the book), the story is about this guy who had great plans for his life, tragedy struck, and his life was set on a much different, much wilder course.  Although his circumstances are uncommon (he ends up in a circus, hello!), the storyline is pretty basic – so much so that many of us have already lived out this story in one way or another.

We’ve all had dreams or expectations of where our lives would go and are surprised at where we actually end up.  At least that’s how things have gone for me.  If you would’ve told me ten years ago that I would be starting a career in journalism, still unmarried (ouch), and not working at a church, I would’ve thought you were crazy.  Why? Because who I am now is far from who I thought I would be when originally creating my plan A.  In fact, I think I may have already surpassed plans B, D, and possibly even Z.

But you know what?  I’m okay with that.  I had a “path” all planned out.  When things didn’t pan out as planned, I “struggled” to find my way – but eventually I did and it just so happens that my “destiny” is already so much better than the path I initially carved out for myself.  I’m always glad when, despite the struggle, things turn out for the best.

As for Jacob Jankowski, I don’t know how his story ends just yet.  Although he had to face major tragedy, I’m sure he’s thankful for the struggles and the pain that led him to the life of love and adventure that he might have missed out on had he traveled his planned course.  I know I’m grateful for the tragedies and triumphs I’ve endured and I’m looking forward to trekking through the un-traveled road that lies ahead for me.

So when things don’t go as planned, look at it as opportunity and another stride towards your destiny.  There’ll be times when you’re put in charge of the elephants (massive pooper scooper, anyone?) and other times when you’ll be flying higher than a trapeze artist.  Whatever the case, enjoy the circus – it may be crazy and full of freaks, but when done right is full of wonder, magic, and sweet memories. And, if you’re lucky, it’ll also have cute boys in tuxedos carrying water for elephants (well, there will be in my circus anyway… and candy… and popcorn… and lots of glitter. LOTS.) =)

For your viewing pleasure, the trailer for Water for Elephants (Not sure why the video isn’t embedded directly in here, but whatever):

WATER FOR ELEPHANTS – OFFICIAL TRAILER