A childhood memory proves to be a powerful moment that helped define the storyteller.
I hope that when people see this, they reflect on past moments that defined them. I also hope that they become more aware of the importance of their actions. The effects are far reaching. Rarely does anything we do affect ourselves only. Our family, friends, and communities are all dynamic entities. I hope that viewers appreciate and value the small moments in life.
I also see this story being used as a springboard for discussion/reflection/research on the black/white culture in the South during the late sixties and early seventies. The story shows how the white community was not ready for an integrated dance. Was the black community ready for a white idealist and his family in their church? Who benefitted from the way things were?
Other topics include the process of change, individual determination, the value of education, religious faith, wisdom through hindsight, appreciation of other cultures, and family as a source of strength.