The King's Speech - The power of Friendship

www.cachestudio.net

If you haven't seen this Oscar-worthy movie - please go!  It's  a beautifully told story about King George VI's incredible triumph over an abusive childhood and his distress at being unexpectedly thrust into the  spotlight and responsibilities of the throne he did not desire.  It's a wonderful tale of courage, as the future king struggles to overcome the limitations of the speech impediment that held him back. For me, it is most importantly about the incredible healig power of friendship.  Bertie embarked on the journey of speech therapy as a technical exercise only.   His therapist, Logue's, attempts to draw him into more personal conversation were met with harsh reprimands - he refused to share himself on a more intimate level.  He made no progress when the therapy remained "business-like".  As Bertie began to trust, to share, to open up about his inner world and feelings, he began to receive the true gift of Logue's greatness.  His methods may have been controversial - who knows if there may have been better techniques or not?  But what really worked was the close friendship the two shared.  They were able to share their vulnerabilities with each other, find acceptance , belonging and understanding. As the friendship grew, Bertie began to experience the change and progress he so desperately needed.  His speech grew stronger as trust in his therapist grew stronger.  He became more confident as he shared more of himself with Lionel.  It was truly the friendship that healed the king!