The Wisdom of the Wizard of Oz

The Wizard of Oz is one of the most beloved movies of generations. In 1956 it was shown on network television and every year since then. These days it is shown on a cable or satellite channel. This has been one of my favorite movies since childhood. The following quotes are as timely today as they were when it came to the big screen when my parents were children.

"Oh, what a world, what a world!" This line by the Wicked Witch played by character actress Margaret Hamilton sure says a lot. The wretched old thing had it right, this is 'what a world'. The agony in her voice is reflected today when I see the terrible things people do to one another.

"There's no place like home". Judy Garland as Dorothy Gayle repeated this mantra with the assistance of Glynda the good witch played by the beautiful Billie Burke. There is no place like home if you are blessed to have a comforting happy one.

'Have a little courage, will you!" Zeke the farm hand who later came forward as the Cowardly Lion was played by Bert Lahr. This is a great quote that we all could whisper under our breath when faced with something intimidating. I know I should.

"The dreams that you dare to dream really do come true" This is an excerpt from the song that was at one time cut from the movie. "Somewhere Over The Rainbow" is the song that always brings Judy Garland to mind. E.Y. Harburg and Harold Arlen wrote this beautiful song that speaks to the heart of anyone that looks for the possibility of a place that is everything good. We all have dreams we dream and maybe if we have a little courage we can make them really come true.

"I'll get you my pretty, and your little dog too." I think this is one of the most quoted lines from the movie. I've heard it on TV shows, in conversations and have said it myself more than once. I caught myself saying it to our dog a few weeks ago.