Everything is the same: same people, same moments, same conversations. (For a dumbed-down, Cruise-ier version of the same theme, watch "Edge of Tomorrow.") The only thing that can change is Phil. Besides its abiding humor and implicit philosophical themes on reincarnation, it reminds me how real growth occurs.
By the end of the movie, Bill Murray's character has stopped trying to control his destiny or manipulate others. Phil can only control how he will respond to his surroundings. He dedicates himself to helping his neighbors, even if he will face the same situation tomorrow. Even though no one will remember what he has done, it is still worth doing. By the end, Phil is the ultimate example of avoiding compassion burnout.
This is something I think progressive Christians can learn from. At times, church people fetishize controlling their situation. We often come from dominant cultures and we want to control how things turn out. Control is as American as apple pie and televised sports. When situations don't go our way (which happens depressingly frequently), we can become disillusioned and move on to other distractions. Who wants to keep fighting a never-ending battle?
Well, I've got a newsflash for you: we are not in control. We are just one small piece of the world, impacted by the decisions others make as much as, if not more than, our impact may have on them. We will fight to stop climate change, end mass incarceration, expand LGBT rights and recognition, as well as speak out on other issues that devalue others. But new issues will emerge. Old fights must constantly be refought. It's one step forward and two steps back. Contrary to our name, progress is not inevitable. The powers and principalities that are brought down once rise again and have to be challenged with the same determination and courage that generations past exhibited.
But I think we can all learn something from Phil: by letting go of our desire to control or be saviors, we can realize something else. Even if we have to fight domination, exploitation, marginalization, and oppression, over and over and over again, it is still worth doing. Because our communities are worth loving, again, and again, and again. By doing so, perhaps even we can exhibit a small glimpse of the Divine patience offered for us all. Forget the dip; pass the grace!
Have a divine Groundhog Day,
Timothy Murphy
Executive Director