I believe one of the very best movie scenes ever was in the flick, “A Few Good Men” starring Jack Nicholson and Tom Cruise. The movie was about a Marine’s death on our Cuban military base at the hands of several other Marines and the question was whether the Marines that killed their colleague did so because they were ordered to by their superior officers. The most engaging scene involved the defense lawyer (played by Cruise) grilling the base’s Commanding Officer (played by Nicholson). Cruise was able to rile up Nicholson who was testifying on the stand under sworn oath. Cruise demands “I WANT THE TRUTH” and then Nicholson replies with equal ardor: “YOU CAN’T HANDLE THE TRUTH” (see the video below if you love incredible acting skills).
Turning away from Hollywood and focusing on weight control: One of factors involved in people not taking aggressive action on their weight control issues is denial. Life-altering/life-threatening issues associated with poor weight control, such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, dementia, cancer and other co-morbidities are things that happen to the “other person” and “not me”, right? This line of thinking is, of course, denial. Intellectually, we all know that being overweight/obese does subject us to many dangerous health issues, yet this alone is not enough to propel us into sustainable action. Yes, we will try “diets” for short periods of time but ultimately most people will fall back into old habits and the weight returns.
The truth: There is a very good chance that one, some or many of the life-altering co-morbidities of poor weight control will impact your life. By being steadfast and focused long-term on your weight control efforts you will dramatically reduce the chances of bad things happening to you medically.
So, can YOU handle the truth? If so, get recommitted to your weight control efforts.
Enjoy Jack Nicholson’s best movie scene ever (well, except for the “Here’s Johnny” scene from The Shining).
