What if the wildest journey isn’t through the mountains—but through your own heart?
Wild by Jean-Marc Vallée is a film that speaks to deep parts of my soul. Watching Cheryl Strayed muster the courage to embark on her solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail leaves me in awe every time. Her grit, her willingness to face herself and her pain, and her perseverance through unimaginable challenges are qualities I deeply admire. If I’m honest, even in my darkest moments, I’ve never been able to summon the kind of boldness she displays. Her journey feels both unreachable and inspiring, a beacon that whispers, "Healing is possible, even in the wilderness of your heart."
Journaling plays such a profound role in her story, and it resonates with my own life. Like Cheryl, I’ve used journaling as a tool for reflection, grief, and self-discovery. It’s my lifeline during the storms of life—a space to process emotions, capture realizations, and find a way forward. Her words, "What if I forgive myself? What if all the things I did are the things that got me here?" echo my own reflections. Revisiting the darker parts of my history has taught me to see them as essential steps that have shaped the person I am today. That truth feels like magic—like a gift only the present moment can offer.
What is Wild About?
Wild is the story of Cheryl Strayed, who sets out on a 1,100-mile hike to heal from the pain of her mother’s death, a broken marriage, and a life spiraling out of control. Based on Cheryl’s memoir, the film follows her physical and emotional struggles as she confronts both the harsh wilderness and the raw terrain of her own soul. It’s a story about loss, self-forgiveness, and the power of nature to heal and transform.
The Hero's Journey vs. The Heroine's Journey
Cheryl’s path in Wild embodies the heroine’s journey, which shares similarities with the classic hero’s journey but also holds key differences.
The hero’s journey, as popularized by Joseph Campbell, often involves an external quest—a departure from the ordinary world, trials and tribulations, and a triumphant return. It focuses on external victories, achievements, and proving one’s strength.
The heroine’s journey, by contrast, centers on inner growth and reconciliation. It often involves descending into the depths of the psyche, reconnecting with the feminine, and integrating emotional wounds into newfound wholeness. Cheryl’s trek is not about conquering the wilderness but about healing her inner world.
Both journeys share the arc of transformation, but the heroine’s story often emphasizes emotional courage over physical triumph, healing over conquest, and connection over separation.
Themes in Wild
Healing Through Solitude: Cheryl’s journey highlights the transformative power of stepping away from the chaos of life to reconnect with oneself.
The Power of Nature: The wilderness becomes both a challenge and a refuge, mirroring Cheryl’s emotional struggles and eventual growth.
Grief and Forgiveness: At the heart of the film is the idea of self-forgiveness—accepting the past and finding peace within it.
The Courage to Begin: Cheryl’s story reminds us that the hardest part of any journey is taking the first step, even when we don’t feel ready.
Resilience and Grit: The physical and emotional challenges Cheryl faces reveal the strength that lies within all of us.
Questions for Reflection & Movie Club Discussions
How did Cheryl’s courage and resilience resonate with you? Have you ever taken a bold step toward healing or self-discovery?
Journaling plays a central role in Cheryl’s story—do you journal? How has it impacted your own life?
The film captures the idea of forgiveness as a path to healing. What does forgiveness mean to you, especially when it comes to yourself?
How does the concept of a hero(ine)’s journey show up in your life? Are there moments you’ve had to face trials, reconcile with your past, or rediscover yourself?
Nature is a central character in Wild. What role does nature play in your own life, and how does it help you process emotions or find clarity?
Let’s reflect together—how has Wild inspired your own journey? What lessons did you take from Cheryl’s story?
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