The Lightning Thief: Overcoming Isolation

Hey folks! I hope your month is going well so far! Did you make any New Years resolutions that seem to be sticking? (the “sticking” is what is of value, you know…not the actual resolution). Well, before Christmas I had the opportunity to see The Lightning Thief in New York City on Broadway.

I knew nothing about the musical before I arrived, however, I sat next to a lovely English teacher (and her class!) who filled me in on some of the details. So, after pouring my guts out last week regarding my parenting fears, let’s talk about how this story is not only universal but points to the Bible.

The Lightning Thief is the story of Percy Jackson, who turns out to be somewhat of a prodigal son. After getting expelled from multiple schools and suffering from dyslexia and ADHD, his mother sends him to a camp. Turns out, unbeknownst to Percy, his Father is Poseidon, the mythological god of the sea. While at camp, Percy meets other half-blood children of the gods and ends up going on a quest to find out who stole Zeus’ lightning bolt and prevents a war.

Universal Points

1. An Outcast

Percy felt like he was an outcast. Further, he had trouble in class and felt misunderstood. Though he was a good kid at heart, he made mistakes and wasn’t given second chances. Ever felt like that?

Mental Health issues are prevalent today. Personally, I’ve had issues with depression and struggle with some anxiety. Hence, it can be easy to feel like we are all alone and have no peers who understand our situation because of our internal dialogue.

2. A Broken Home

Though Percy lived with his mother and step father, the man of the house didn’t treat his mom very well. Further, his birth father was wholly unknown to him. Percy longed to see his mom happy, and he didn’t want to cause her any strife (though he seemed to draw trouble to him).

Lots of people come from single parent homes, where finances and time contraints can stress a family. Additionally, it can be difficult for kids to find their identities when they don’t have solid relationships with both parents.

3. Finding Community

Percy ended up meeting some buddies with common interests and, thus, found his purpose. He used the skills and resources he had, and he went out to do good in the world. He faced betrayal and loss.

Honestly, we are not meant to be islands (Islands in the stream, that is what we are…sorry). We all need community; we all need connection though there will be pitfalls here and there. Find some people who have similar likes or hobbies. Get a core group of cheerleaders who will help you become a better you.

The Lightning Thief

I’m not going to lie and tell you that I didn’t think of the Bible while I was watching the musical. Though The Lightning Thief is based on Greek mythology, the underlying principles of outcasts, broken homes, and the importance of community rang true.

Take a look at the apostles and the outcasts that came to Jesus… the tax collector, the woman caught in adultery, fishermen, the bleeding woman, and countless invalids.  Even more, take a look at your own life and see if you’ve ever felt misunderstood and left out. But, just like there was place for Percy Jackson, there is a place for each one of us in God’s Kingdom.

A faith family and core friends who share similar values are essential. You can’t grow if the people around you are holding you back. You’re meant to have someone on your side. Having good people around you for counsel, protection, and love is crucial.

Lastly, find your purpose. Percy chased lightning bolts and you, too, are meant for a mission! God created a special role for each of us. Moreover, there are people that only you can reach to share our testimonies, wisdom, and love. You count. Your mission counts.

All in all, The Lightning Thief was a good little musical! Along with the lights and wonderful singing, I appreciated the little nuggets of truth I took away.

Love, K.

Author, Ten Iron Principles