As I watched this classic American Movie this holiday season I experienced a myriad of emotions. It is a powerful film that takes many twists and turns as viewers follow the life of the main character.  The movie features both sides of humanity; good an bad, dark and light, greed and generosity. And for that reason it is easy to relate to; all people experience joy, despair, doubt, fear, love, confusion and duty. While watching the roller coaster of emotions that Jimmy Stewart’s character experiences in this movie it reinforced a very Buddhist concept (to me) : Satifaction in life is not derived from avoiding hurt or not experiencing negative emotions; it is from learning from such experiences. It is only through the contrast of pain that one can truly experience joy.    This holiday season I am striving to be grateful for the darkness that helps define the light, and embracing the contrast.