What I Learned From Bert in “Mary Poppins”

Summary

The author reflects on the character Bert from "Mary Poppins" as a symbol of choosing joy and positivity, inspired by their experiences in London, particularly around statues.

Abstract

The author shares a personal reflection on the character Bert from "Mary Poppins," expressing admiration for Bert's ability to bring out the best in others and maintain a positive outlook. Drawing a parallel to their own life, the author describes their time in London, where despite the gloomy weather, they choose to embrace joy and have meaningful interactions. The article emphasizes the power of a positive attitude in transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary, and it encourages readers to linger on the page to appreciate the stories shared, including those from friends and fellow writers who have also contributed to the "February Six Word Photo Story Challenge: 'Statues'."

Opinions

Bert the chimney sweep is the author's favorite character in "Mary Poppins" because of his infectious zest for life and his humanizing influence on Mary Poppins.
The author believes that joy is a deliberate choice and that this mindset can make even the grayest days spectacular.
During their vacation in London, the author experiences the city in the rain without an umbrella, yet finds joy in conversations and acts of kindness.
The author hopes that their own positive demeanor has a similarly uplifting effect on others as Bert's does in the film.
The article suggests that the author's friend, Sandi Parsons, and other Medium contributors like Penny Grubb, lukthru, and Jennifer Marla Pike, share a similar appreciation for the beauty and narrative potential in statues.

Grey and ordinary, I’m choosing bright.

I grew to love Mary Poppins, but Bert the chimney sweep was my favorite character. He softened the prickly Mary and made her more human. His zest for life was contagious. He saw the sunshine on a gloomy day.

Even when I first saw the film, I knew in this life I choose to be a Bert.

I’m currently on vacation in London, where I saw this statue in Leicester Square. It is gloomy and rainy and gray, but I’m having the best time.

I’ve been walking miles without an umbrella (another thing to carry), looking quite bedraggled and scary, yet have had great conversations and been the recipient of all kinds of little kindnesses. I hope others feel the same after encounters with me.

Joy is a choice that makes the grey and ordinary spectacular.

Here are a few more stories for you to check out. Hang on the page at least 30 seconds. Those of us who use fewer words appreciate it!

The one who encouraged me to write on one of the statues I’d run across is my friend, Sandi Parsons.

Penny Grubb found a gnome I like! (I’m typically not a fan).

lukthru highlighted a statue of reflection.

And many may see something familiar in this piece by Jennifer Marla Pike.

What I Learned From Bert in “Mary Poppins”

February Six Word Photo Story Challenge: “Statues”

Grey and ordinary, I’m choosing bright.

Here Lies Thomas Riddle

February Six Word Photo Story Challenge: “Statues”

The Cheeky Grin Gives Him Away

February Six Word Photo Story Challenge: “Statues”

Fairylike

February Six Word Photo Story Challenge: “Statues”

Writer’s Blocks

February Six Word Photo Story Challenge: “Statues”