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We ran a book giveaway contest for The Big Lebowski and Philosophy where we asked people to share why they love The Big Lebowski.
The answers are listed below!
You can also check out the results from our previous contest here!
What Have You Learned From The Big Lebowski?
| Country | What have you learned from watching The Big Lebowski? |
| United Kingdom | If there’s one thing The Big Lebowski has taught me, it’s that life can throw the most insanely fucked up situation your way; but it’ll resolve itself in the end. The world abides if the dude abides. |
| United States | Takin it easy is a lot easier than takin it…hard I suppose… |
| United Kingdom | That being ‘the Dude’ takes a lot of work and coolness, that a mix up of identity can ruin a rug and start a chain reaction of complex events and that homages to the works of Raymond Chandler done in a modern context make the best films! |
| United States | I’d have to say that of the two main protagonists of The Big Lebowski, I used to be more like Walter. I’d be all over the place, yelling and waving my gun around while my friends pleaded, “Walter, put the piece away”. After seeing The Dude in action, I’ve learned to be more calm. There’s a time to fret about the big picture, but there’s also a time to stop worrying about things outside of your control and just try to get your rug back, man. And if I ever get upset now, I can just say, “This aggression will not stand, man”.
So, that’s it. My response is in your hands, Dude. |
| United States | Everytime you watch The Big Lebowski, you can learn something new (assuming your mind is limber enough). It points out so many things that aren’t worth worrying or struggling over, with the guiding principle “Take it easy” being a constant reminder of the ways of The Dude. The message resides even in moments where you wouldn’t be looking for it; Donnie’s death being a prime example hear. Here’s Dude worrying about shit going down, with Walter flippin’ a bitch, and Donnie up and has a heart-attack. The message here is simple man; fuck the noise and the bullshit, stay focused on what’s actually important to you, and don’t take your brother for granted, as he may not be here tomorrow.
Take it easy. Be excellent to each other, and party on dudes. |
| Canada | I’ve learned that unless it’s an emergency, you never roll on shomer fucking Shabbos!… Shomer! Shabbos! |
| United States | The more dramatic life is, the more dudeness that is required.
It’s all about finding your inner dude when you need it most. |
| United States | The act of abiding takes strength beyond measure, and a willingness to acknowledge, and accept, not all have it including myself at times. |
| United States | I learned to take’er easy…I learned that no amount is too small to write a check for…I learned that you need several sniffs to know if the milk has gone bad and that powdered nondairy creamer is a great substitute… i learned that room accessories really matter, and can really tie a room together… I learned that doors can open either direction so check it before barricading it…I learned that Mr. Bubbles, a J and candles might be the way to a man’s heart…I learned that vermin are scary and nihilists believe in nothing, but love those berries they sell at Ikea…I learned how to clean balls…As a kid I asked why The Jesus had a long pinky nail, so I learned the uses of a long pinky nail…I learned what true friendship is and how to treat that annoying friend we all have (shut the fuck up, Donnie)… I learned the proper name for Chinese people, I learned that guns and bowling, at least league bowling, don’t mix… I learned how to say goodbye to a loved one and that even the most modestly priced vessels are sometimes too much…I learned that the bums will always lose, sluts probably kidnaped themselves and that people with emotional problems should be allowed a little leniency when playing competitive games. I learned to live life to the fullest, to smoke a J when shit gets to hectic, man, and mostly I learned to abide. |
| United States | That someone else hates The Eagles as much as I do. |
| United Kingdom | Strikes & Gutters.
This says it all man; it’s all there is to life. You got your ups when you’re riding high and nothing can bring you down, (and there is always more half & half) and then some dude (possibly of Oriental origin) comes along and pisses on your rug. You gotta take the rough with the smooth. Life’s gonna deal you a bum hand now and then but you just gotta keep on doing what you do and everything will turn out right in the end. And even if it doesn’t, it doesn’t matter ‘cos as the late great Bill Hicks (himself a true dude, even if he did get a little wound up from time to time…) said: It’s just a ride. You can get caught up in the ups and downs, the twists & turns and you start to think that this is all there is to life; the crap that people put on you and the haters hating, but you every now and then you have to take that moment to step back and just watch the sun rise or listen to the waves and you’ll realise that none of the BS matters man. Life’s what you want it to be. Make it easy, that’s what The Dude taught me. That and smoke a healthy doob every day! Peace, love & good times to all |
| United Kingdom | I have learned to keep an open mind and take things as they come . . .that said if it all goes wrong there is always bowling !! |
| United States | Shit happens. Life goes on man. Can’t be tied down with that shit. |
| United States | I dont like vaginal art |
| United States | clarity. |
| United Kingdom | What have I learned from watching TBL?
Far out, man. I’ve learned that the important thing in this life is to fit right in there…to be the man for your time and place. And even if I am a lazy man…what was I saying? Hell, lost my train of thought. Anyway, sometimes there’s a man…and sometimes you are that man…sometimes you’re not. Sometimes the man is a woman…sometimes the man used to be a woman and is now a man…and sometimes, well, sometimes the man is two men who love each other and just want to be able to wear something nice and have a reverend say a few words over ’em and so on…and that’s cool man, that’ cool. I guess what I’m sayin’ is, keep your mind open so that you’re privy to all the new shit when it comes on down the trail. Free your mind, and your ass will follow…as the fellar says. Keep your thinking from becoming uptight and just roll on, brother. The Man Upstairs (or Woman, or Woman Who Used to be a Man, or Omniscient Consciousness of the Creative and Destructive Equilibrium of the Cosmos, …if you’re not into the whole brevity thing) doesn’t want us being all uptight and feelin’ shitty. Life’s too short, man…and before you know it, some friend of yours is dumping all that’s left of you out of a Folgers can from Ralph’s over the Pacific. So roll on brother, take ‘er easy for yourself and all us sinners. Now I have been to London…and I have seen France….(but I missed the Queen in her damned undies as the fellar says) and I can tell you that it don’t matter where on this earth you go and it don’t matter much what you look like or how much money you got or who you like to spend your special-friend time with…you gotta keep your mind loose and your cocktail glass topped up and just let it all be. See ya on down the trail! The Right-Reverend Jason Hunt – formerly of Alabama, now taking ‘er easy way over in Scotland. |
| United States | Whale song is nice – marmots are not. There is always a way to make a White Russian. |
| United Kingdom | Never scatter your friend’s ashes off a cliff in a high wind. |
| United States | Being a dudeist is like being a rug. You can make the room, bring all the elements together.There are times when uncool people will piss on you, but it is not about you it is because they got it all wrong. Sometimes a unknown force (a bigger Dude) will rescue you away from that pretentious uncaring large hall in the big house (that really was never your place anyways) and move you to smaller digs; enjoy the ride man. Other times you just need to lay still and be accommodating so that others can kick back and hear their own inner bowler. Bottom line even when folks are treading on you it is better to go through life as a thread bare well loved rug than a cheaply manufactured vinyl floor. |
| Ireland | I’ve learned many things from The Big Lebowski, I learned how to make a decent white russian, I learned the difference between a special lady and a lady friend, I even learned how to live my life as a dude and become a better person. But the most important thing I learned from The Big Lebowski is that the preferred nomenclature is actually Chinese-American and not Chinaman, even if he did pee on your fucking rug… Anyway, I feel out of my element here so I’m going to shut the fuck up. |
| United States | One rug can really tie a room together, you have to know when you’re out of your element, know when you’ve stepped over the line / always ask am I wrong? to confirm you’re right. In certain situations you must ask the people around you if they mind if you do a J. The better you know your landlord the more flexible your rent payment and know the distinction b.t.w a special lady and a lady friend who you’re just helping to concieve |
| United States | Sunglasses, rugs, White Russians, and Doobers make for an interesting day.
You can’t be so serious all the time. Be less-uptight, and more congenial. You gotta abide, dude. Crack a joke, have a laugh, and don’t drink the milk if it’s expired. |
| United States | That it’s already the 10th dude. and that Metallica are a bunch of assholes. But also that new shit has came to light, and the nihilists never took bunny. no funny stuffs |
| United States | Careful man there is a beverage here. |
| United Kingdom | I have learned that a movie is not just a movie.
History tells us that wisdom can be obtained by reading and philosophy but the last hundred years have brought us the power of cinema.. and there are few films out there that have inspire such wisdom as the Big Lebowski. After all, what other films out there have inspired a religion that teaches us to Abide in this uptight world of our time and place? There are many things I have learned from watching the Big Lebowski, probably far more than I can fit into this small paragraph, maybe the most important lesson is this; when things gets tough say; “Fuck it, life goes on man!” |
| United States | I’ve learned a lot of things from seeing this brilliant movie, man. |
| United States | Strong men also cry. |
| Mexico | To take it easy. Be a dude with the dudes.
It is cheaper a can of Foldgers to put the ashes. |
| United States | What Have I learned from the Big Lebowski? Society is pretty fucked up, and a lot of people in society are fucked up, the laws are fucked up, and all you can do to deal with all this fucked-up crazy nonsense that is our society in our day and age is just fucking Abide by your own shit, man. Don’t get caught up in the shit storm cause your gonna get fucked because your shit that you think is equally as fucked up to the shit the other fucked up people think, its a lot of strange shit. What I am sayin’ here don’t sound real nice and happy with flowers and what not, and shit, it ain’t an ideal situation, but sometimes this idea is ideal for its time and place, and sometimes it’s the Dude… Shit, what the fuck was I talking about? Uh, well, shit… I guess all I got to say now is that sometimes our world will be a whole lotta shit, and sometimes all you can do to achieve happiness, the “American Dream”, self fulfillment or whatever the fuck you want to call it, is just say fuck it! Lets go bowling! |
| United States | I have learned a lot of different things from watching The Lebowski, I have learned: If your wife owes money to Jackie Treehorn then you owe money to Jackie Treehorn, the dude’s rug really tied the room together, the dude doesn’t need your sympothy, he needs his f***ing johnson, a “brother shamus” is not an irish monk, Shabbos is the Jewish day of rest, which means you don’t work, you don’t drive or ride in a car, you don’t handle money, and you sure as s*** don’t f***ing roll!, nobody f**** with the Jesus, and of course the dude abides. |
| United States | “Sometimes you eat the bear, and sometimes…well, he eats you.”
Aside from the obvious “Eastern” thing interpretation, The Big Lebowski, as evidenced in the above quote from the film, offers an honest portrait of the human conditions in all of its absurdity. Plus, the movies is pretty far out, man. |
| Germany | Duuuude! Sometimes you just gotta chillax man! Don’t take life so darn serious because apparently simply everybody has their own philosophy and thinks their shit is the most important man! You’ll be totally cool that way by simply accepting shit the way it is. |
| India | Never to go on a tri- on a hig- I mean on an adventure with a war veteran.
But that’s just, like, my opinion, man. |
| Netherlands | I’ve learned that some people aren’t wrong. They’re just assholes. |
| Canada | I’m a nihilist. I believe in nooooothing. |
| United States | Definitely: That a White Russian is a very fine drink. That bowling shirts are cooler than I ever imagined they could be.
Perhaps: That, in its mysterious ways, the cosmos looks after honesty above greed and vengeance. Not so much: Where to find a toe. |
| United States | This is BY FAR my favorite movie. My life is a constant flood of tie-ins to Lebowski-isms and me finding ways to relate my life to that movie. I have learned what pedarast means, as well as marmot. I have learned that I love other Coen brothers movies, but they pale in comparison to the laugh-out-loud, quote-every-line, never-gets-old perfection of this story that unfolded about the time of our conflict with Saddam and the Iraqis. I have learned to never underestimate the creativity of Achievers and their costume ideas at LebowskiFest. I have learned that I am strong man, but I can also cry. I have learned that it is unwise to smoke a roach with a beer in hand, whilst driving and rocking to CCR – lest I risk wrecking into a garbage can. I have learned that sometimes you might find yourself at a somewhat awkward business dinner with a senior VP, only to be saved by discovering that not only do you both love this movie, but HE ACTUALLY HAS IT IN HIS WILL TO HAVE HIS CREMATED REMAINS KEPT IN A FOLGERS CAN. And it may be cliche, but above all – I have learned that life has a lotta ins, a lotta outs..a lotta what-have-yous…but ultimately it is stikes and gutters…and we should all abide. |
| United States | There’s so much to learn from the Big Lebowski!
The importance of tact: “No Walter, you’re not wrong, you’re just an asshole” The subjectivity of the human experience: “That’s just, like, your opinion, man.” How to keep your goals in focus: “All the dude wanted was his rug back. It really tied the room together.” How to maintain a strong self-identity: “No, man, you’re Mr. Lebowski. I’m ‘The Dude’…or ‘Duder’, or ‘His Dudeness’, or ‘El Duderino’ if you not into that whole brevity thing…” How to prevent waste: “Watch it, man! There’s a beverage here!” How to nip gossip in the bud: “She’s not my special lady. She’s my fucking lady friend!” How to use evidence to draw conclusions: “Does this place look like I’m fucking married? The toilet seat’s up, man!” Take comfort in the fact he’s out there, abidin’ for all us sinners! |
| United States | Sometimes… Most times it is good to live obliviously to the woes of life and other’s because Maaan, life is to short to not just Abide! I have learned to Abide by the things that are meaningful in my life such as my family, which frankly, is really all that matters. |
| United States | Fuck it man, life goes on. You gotta look forward, and that’s the truth. |
| France | Things happen. |
| United States | This is NOT NAM ! |
| United States | I have learned that even when you get the rug completely pulled out from under you, life goes on, friendship is what’s important, and all injuries, even cracks on the jaw, heal over time. Even rugless and facing the semifinals, there is joy to be had in connections with strangers and special ladies alike. Whenever I am in a foul mood, things in life have gone over the line, or I am face-to-face with effin’ fascists, I can watch The Big Lebowski, have a laugh, and feel the strikes and gutters, ups and downs, a little less. I guess you can say I have learned how truly to take it easy, man. Thankee! |
| Iceland | That Mr. Treehorn treats objects like women. |
| Switzerland | To live a good life one need to restrict his drug intake (not too much) to keep one’s mind limber, you know. |
| Russia | The wisdom and the simplicity of the way of non-resistance. |
| Canada | I learned to care a little less about pretty much everything in my life and not stress things that are out of my control. |
| Netherlands | That a rug can really tie a room together, but well, you know, that’s just, like, my opinion, man. |
| Germany | I learned that a ‘White Russian’ is the god of beverages. |
| United States | That sometimes you eat the bar, and sometimes, well, he eats you. |
| United States | No matter how fucked up your day is… a couple puffs will make you forget it all (at least for a minute) hahahah |
| Canada | life’s just too short to waste time on the small things… |
| Netherlands | When you get up, in the morning or the afternoon. When you go to bed, at night or in the morning. When you buy milk in the shop, pay with cash or a cheque. When you go to work, or not. When you go bowling, or just drinking. When you get dumped, by your special lady or lady friend. When tomorrow is already the tenth. When you lose somebody, a friend or a teammate. When the bummers get the best of you, lose hope or think to yourself: ah fuck it, I’ll abide. |
| United States | You can deflect all criticism with, “Well, that’s just, like, your OPINION, man.”
And while the White Russian remains my favorite beverage, the Eagles remain my favorite band. Sorry, Dude. What can I say? Their music really ties my room together. |
| United States | I learned that my neighbors car get’s smashed to shit when I fuck a stranger in the ass. |
| United States | That when someone tries to argue with me, instead of getting upset I think, “that is just their opinion, man.” |
| United States | What I can honestly say I learned from The Big Lebowski is that, sometimes, no matter how forthright you are, and no matter how ambivalent you are, some people are going to drag you into their shit. Actually, that’s a little surface for my taste. Here’s something: People are just exactly who they are. No amount of bullshit was going to change The Dude, or Big Lebowski, or Maude or Walter, and that speaks to how immovable we all are in or own egos, our vices, and, if we’re lucky, our dreams. We hold onto those because we are they, they hold onto them because they are they. It’s a nice reminder of life imitating art imitating life and all that schtick. |
| Belgium | The answer to life, the universe and everything isn’t 42. It is: ‘Take it easy’ |
| Norway | I learned not to take life so seriously. Oh and how to make a white russian. |
| United States | Sometimes it’s not that people are wrong, its just that they’re assholes.
Often I find that new shit has come to light that, you know, others might not be privy to. I don’t find the word “vagina” to be vulgar at all. There are no absolute truths, ya know. Everything is, like, your opinion, man. |
| United States | I’ve learned that with the right mindset, and a few White Russians, things will eventually work out in the end. |
| Hungary | That there are a lot of like minded people in the world like me, who like to live their life simply. |
| United Kingdom | “What have i learned from The Big Lebowski?”, many things on both a philosophical and comedic level. First of all “The Bums always lose” although orginally said to Dude by Mr Lebowski, i believe it applies to the later as he was attempting to steal money from the “Urban Achievers” to feed his livestyle of egoism in the form of a trophy wife and the apparence of wealth and in the end did lose. this leads on to another important point. from a philosophical sense from the the Big Lebowski i have learnt to be greatful for what i have. let me explain, The Dude seeking retribution for his pee stained rug stole a rug from Mr Lebowski setting of the chain of events that followed. likewise with Mr Lebowski in the form of his pride and parasitic lifestyle. linking to the above point i have also learnt that it is wise to pay off your debts because no one wants a pee stained rug as they do tie the room together. although I guess that’s the way the whole durned human comedy keeps perpetuatin’ itself. Veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and brand new cars do not mix and further more do not attempt to have sex with such a fellow without permission as because the last thing i want is a heavy set man smashing my new car screaming “This is what happens when you fuck a stranger in the ass/Alps!” (Cover word where appriorate). Of the opposing view it is both entertaining and valueable to have such a person as a friend to help you out of sticky situations both to jump out of moving cars and to protect your johnson against Nihilists (but avoid cheating while Bowling accidently or otherwise in there presents of such a person is most advised). On the point of Nihilism (Which is exchausting btw) from the Big Lewbowski i have learnt that in this case atleast the do value something, in this case money, and if you need a body part for a bogus kidnapping do not take a limb from your girlfriend as you dont wanna be called a “Fucking dipshit with a nine toed woman” althought bogus kidnapping is ill advised as “without a hostage, there is no ransom. That’s what ransom is. Those are the fucking rules”.i have also learnt that when a friend die’s it is important to keep a clear head when it comes to funeral arrangments just because we’re bereaved, that doesn’t make us saps. in terms of gender relations what makes a man is both a person prepared to do the right thing, whatever the cost, that, and a pair of testicals. Finally ive have learnt that when its important to times of say “Oh Fuck it” to a bad sitituation or declare that I do mind, the Dude minds. This will not stand, ya know, this aggression will not stand, man. a finale comment of the Big Labowski and when i have learnt is that that The Dude abides. I don’t know about you but I take comfort in that. It’s good knowin’ he’s out there. The Dude. Takin’ ‘er easy for all us sinners. |
| United States | Sometimes, it’s okay to say “Fuck it, I’m going bowling.”
Nothing keeps you centered like a fresh white russian and some tai chi on a nice rug. Feminists aren’t so bad, after all. Especially rich ones who need a good hump. Germans are pointless, heartless bastards who can’t act in porn for shit. Sometimes our quietest friends make the biggest impact on us. Bath + half a joint + nature sounds = relaxation… unless Kraut nihilists bust in, threaten castration, and sick their marmot on you. You never know when it might come in handy to have a Vietnam veteran and tactical supply store-owner as a close friend. When solving a problem, take plenty of time to consider all the ins and outs—there will be a lot of them—and keep your mind limber with a steady regimen of booze and narcotics. The answer will present itself in due time, man. |
| United Kingdom | The surrealism in the film had a great effect on me because I realised that the imagery in my mind wasn’t insanity. Surrealism to me is reality. |
| Netherlands | How to mix a white russian. |
| Australia | it saved my life after feel’in down and out stuck out at sea on a tug boat for 12 week it was on foxtel when I finish my shift and it made me feel more chillaxed and made me look at life like a DUDE. I will abide to the dude’s way |
| Australia | In watching The Big Lebowski I have learned many lessons about love, life, and bowling. But none so much as possibly the most important lesson about house keeping.
The Big Lebowski has taught me NEVER to own a rug, specifically of the Persian variety! First and foremost, they are damned expensive to replace once micturated upon. Thanks to The Big Lebowski, whenever someone intends to soil my floor coverings all I now need to do is simply mop up my rug-free polished floorboards. No Mess. No Fuss… And no Nihilists. |
| Portugal | All you need is a caucasian and a good carpet to tie the room together. And bowling of course. |
| Poland | I’ve learned, that it’s not important what vices do you have if you have your wonderful friends with you. There can be some arguments sometimes, but in truly friendship you support each other. I’ve also learned, that nothing can repair atmosphere between friends like a small play in bowling, even after a serious fail. |
| Netherlands | To abide. That sounds simple and obvious, but it such a strong lesson in situations of possible, unnecessary stress. |
| Ireland | The Big Lebowski has shown me the benefits of simply “abiding”. The world is complex- a lotta ins and a lotta outs. You may wish to draw lines in the sand, not let aggression stand, but you have to remind yourself of what is really important. Like having a rug that ties your room together. That is what is marvellous, having the rug, not checking aggression. Remember what it is that made you happy and seek it out. Don’t let your mind get so uptight thinking about the case. Abide. |
| United States | That you’re a Lebowski, I’m a Lebowski, and that’s terrific, man! |
| Denmark | Hakuna Matata. And always finishing my coffee. |
| Netherlands | You can rush yourself into trouble and get stressed, or you can take it easy and get into trouble and get stressed. I chose for the 2nd option after watching the dude… |
| Italy | Me learning from the Big Lebowski? What?!
He’s learned frome me! |
| United Kingdom | The dude abides. By this rationale, dudism abides. |
| United Kingdom | To kick back and relax and let things go with the flow, plus white russians are cool. |
| Germany | The Dude taught me to just take it easy – you can have a whole lot of shit going on in you life but it just depends on what you make of it! So relax and everything will work out one way or another…and who cares anyway?!? |
| India | Pacifists are fragile. Without hostage one cannot ask for ransom, that’s against the rules. Feminists like coitus, the physical act of love. The revolution of the bums is over, they have lost. Nihilists don’t have an ethos, and they are not to be confused with Nazis. Chinaman is not the preferred nomenclature. The whites make a good ringer. Poor women sometimes kidnap themselves, but they most certainly do not get killed (incidentally blowjobs from them are quite expensive). Saturday is jewish day of rest, one does not roll on a saturday. One should not fuck with the Jesus. Metallica are a bunch of assholes. Old cars with rust coloration make good toilets. It is illegal to keep an amphibious rodent in city limits. One will lose ones train of thought talking about… err… yeah. BUT, one shouldn’t be worried about all this shit, that is veeery ‘undude’. Life, goes on man… sir. |
| United Kingdom | that not all things are bad going up an isle. |
| Sweden | From The Big Lebowski I have learned that you do not always need an answer to everything, it often is enough with just “fuck it”. You maybe do not have to go so far as tattoo it to your forehead, but you should non the less be ashamed of living your life that way. And if the world really is turning against you, you can just fuck it an go bowling. That is the way to tackle your problems! |
| United States | The Dude Abides. The Carpet really bought the room together. Ferrets are wonderful creatures. Golfing and Bowling are two different sports. Not to bail out of a car, with an automatic, till I know I have it secure. A pinky toe is the center of the mystery. Access to a cash machine can be necessity at times!!! |
| Austria | The Dude tought to take life not to serious, and that it doesn’t matter how it may work out. It’s important that you like the life you live and are able to be proud of it.
He also tought me not to give a f*ck when life’s not going that well. Sincerly (sorry for my bad english) |
| Portugal | The Big Lebowski taught me how to become an urban buddhist. Even if things go wrong, I simply try again, knowing that, when everything falls apart, the Universe has a way of reorganizing itself, just like the fallen bowling pins eventually get back up. No one likes marmots in their bathtub, but hey, that’s life. Yin and yang, strikes and gutters. |
| Germany | Never pee on a carpet wich keeps the room together and don’t throw ashes in the wind.
The greatest thing in earth wich could happen to you is when you’re on drugs and feel like a bowling ball. |
| Switzerland | I learned that you should consider the wind before draining the ash of your buddy. And lots of other things! |
| United Kingdom | Don’t fuck with opertunistic leather clad ferret weilding German pornstars. On any day man thatll fuck up your Zen man. |
| Slovakia | That I will never understand anything. |
| United States | • Rugs really do accent a room.
• Don’t bowl without a white russian in hand. • Don’t fuck with ‘The Jesus’ (he’s into 7 year olds dude – and thats messed up) • Never f*ck strangers in the ass. • Always ask if its ok to “Do a J”. • Sad rich men stay secluded in the west wing of their mansion. • Don’ spread ashes on a windy day. • Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, Steve Buscemi and Julianne Moore all are badass • enough said – i could go on forever… top 5 movie of all time! |
| Australia | If you will it, it is no dream. |
| United States | I learned a few things:
1: a rug really ties a room together. 2: don’t F!@# with d’Jesus. 3: the Chinaman is NOT the issue. 4: this is not Vietnam. There are rules. And, the most important… 5: the Dude abides. |
| Turkey | The Dude abides. |
| Denmark | Ive learned manny things, but what ive learned and use everyday, is to take it easy, no problem is so big that it cant be solved in an orderly and chilling manner. The dude abides you know. |
| Germany | Be careful about the direction of the wind while trying to send the Ashe of a good friend flying and the carpet holds the room together. =) |
| United States | I learned that Mr. Lebowski in fact cannot walk. |
| United States | The dudes abides, and using a rodent for amphibous purposes…within the county… That ain’t legal either |
| United States | The Big Lebowski has taught me that life is very complicated with a lotta Ins, lotta Outs, and lotta What-have-yous. To accomplish your, uh, goals in life, you gotta keep a lotta strands in your head. Lotta strands in your head (SHUT THE FUCK UP, VOICES!) I’ve also learned that in life, there are rules. Am I the only one around here who gives a shit about the rules?! (MARK IT ZERO, VOICES!) I’ve also learned that to get through this thing called life, you have to have an ethos. Say what you like about the tenets of Dudeism, Dude, at least it’s an ethos. And finally, in the interest of brevity, the greatest thing I have learned from The Big Lebowski is that “Life Isn’t Nam! (Fuck it, let’s go bowling, voices.) |
| United States | That keeping wildlife, an amphibious rodent, for uh, domestic, you know, within the city – that aint legal either. |
| Denmark | When analyzing the profound wisdom composing the socratic interaction between the Dude, his opponents and his Plato-like student Walter, I found that….,………… fuck it! Lets go bowling. |
| Australia | Some men are afraid of the word vagina |
| United States | I learned that there was practically no difference between the 90’s and 2010 except for cell phones. |
| United States | #1 is to abide and #2 is to adhere to a strict regiment of drugs and alcohol to keep my mind limber #3 just take it easy man these three things have enriched my life in so many ways thank you for your time peace out dudes |
| South Africa | It was made clear that even though so many people are passionate about their country and defending it during war, that nothing good comes from it. It more than likey just messes you up. Leaving you scarred for life. |
| United States | that Donny should just “shut to fuck up”. |
| United States | Pissing and spreading ashes in the wind are alike, nobody comes out of it clean |
| United States | The Dude Abides!!!!! Just keep movin’ on, you are never going to change anything unless you try. |
| United States | I learned to abide…with minimal effort, the man has an adventure–he meets Larry Zellers (sort of), goes to a porn magnet’s garden party, gets laid, and advances to semis. Let the pitch come to you. And if it doesn’t work out–F-it…go bowling. |
| United States | Life is to be enjoyed, and there’s no need to be uptight. |
| United States | Fuck it Dude! Let’s go bowling. Simple…let’s go bowling. |
| United States | …That it was the carpet pissers! |
| United States | If The Dude has taught us anything, it’s that the bums don’t always lose; that in the face of adversity, when the carpet-pissers come for your rug, when the goal-brickers stand in the way, when The Eagles are playing in your cab, when your foot is over the line, when they send you a toe- with nail polish, when your buddies have died face-down in the muck so you and I could enjoy this family restaurant, when they have your homework and they know you stole the car AND took the money, when they believe in nothing and threaten to cut off your johnson…
The Dude abides. |
| Canada | I’ve learned not to take life so seriously, man. If something gets your whites in a twist then just do a J or mix yourself up a caucasian, Jackie! I just ask myself WWTDD? What would the dude do? Whether you’re rolling strikes or gutters, the bowling alley will always open again tomorrow, man! |
| United States | I’ve learned to Chill Owwwwwwt, it will all make sense to me at the end! |
| United States | There is nothing that a good Caucasian can’t fix.
Keep your enemies close, but the local pederass closer, he’ll make you Bowl on Shabbats! |
| United States | I have learn’t that whether being Jewish or not, the phrase Shomer Shabbos is a good excuse to sit home on a Saturday and do nothing. No work, no shopping and no family visits. |
| United States | The true meaning of inner peace and a good Caucasian. |
| United States | their are tumbleweeds in downtown L.A
sasaparilla is like root beer and not alcoholic bowling can be a very dangerous sport Kraftwork is still together; they ride mortorcycles; and they have become nihilistic kidnappers and they also like lingenberry pancakes If your car gets stolen in LA the cops work extra shifts to find it. you can’t bowl on Shabba!! how bowling pin setters work it it possible to be very undude strong men also cry. standards have fallen in adult entertainment because of video bowling ballls can be used as very effective weapons burial urns are expensive and Folger coffee tins work just does as well; always throw the ashes downwind. Jesus is a pederast it is not that hard to get a toe with nail polish… you can write a check for .67 cents Some men avoid saying the word vagina but they will readily refer to their Johnsons The early episodes of branded can be very inspirational. what happens when you fuck a stranger in the ass! Micterate is synonymous with uriinate! sometimes you eat the bear and sometime the bear eats you! |
| United States | What have I learned from TBL? So much, so much . . . Don’t scatter your friend’s ashes off the seaside bluff when the wind is blowing in. Beware of German nihilists. Don’ accept a Caucasian from a porn film maker who thinks you have something that belongs to him. Stay out of Malibu! Don’t criticize the cabbie’s music choices. So much, so much . . . To abide, to abide, to abide. |
| United States | The Big Lebowski opened my mind to a new life philosophy, one which I had known to exist yet had never accepted as viable. I, like many in our fine country, had judged success purely by the numbers: how much money one made, how many games won, how many foes bested. I had never taken the time to realize that happiness may be found within, too. The Dude’s story helped me realize the simple obsoleteness of tormenting myself with the pains associated with things outside my control, whether they be regretful decisions, lost friends, or stolen Creedence tapes. His inherent composure made me see benefit in shrugging off a derogatory action, rather than pursuing retribution for every little wrong that had been done to me. To sum, I found myself accepting a fact that many in the West would do good to learn: Sometimes, you just gotta say “Fuck it.” |
| United States | Its the little things that matter, like a rug that ties the room together. Do what you love most, like bowling. Its good to have an ethos, because caring about nothing can be quite exhausting. Opposites can blend beautifully, like El Duderino and Walter. But most of all, live easy and live free, everything is gonna be ok. One love, one dude. |
| United States | That Donny is out of his element |
| United States | How to be a dude…what do is it??? |
| United States | Life is like bowling, strikes and gutters come along with paying the game |
| United States | I’ve learned many things from The Dude over the years: adhere to a strict drug and alcohol regiment, things are not always what they seem, and most importantly, never fuck a stranger in the ass. I do my best to abide day in and day out. I believe that the most commonly appearing ethos in the film is: do as little work as possible for rewards. Thus ends my essay. |
| France | I learned that this movie keeps in its deepest lines the Secret of Life, of a Succesfull Life, of the achievment that everybody all over the world could ever expect to live. |
| United States | I have studied the way of the dude for many years now and recently became an ordained dudeist priest. The Dude symbolizes everything that we all secretly want to be. We all want to be cool. The dude has no worries in the world except for the fact that if you pee on his rug then this aggression will not stand man! Let’s all be a little bit more like the dude and a little less aggressive towards our fellow man. May the dude be with you! |
| United States | I bowl therefore I am. I am serious. |
| United States | I have learned that sometimes if you have no real responsibilities your life can be as crazy as you let it. but most of the time its just not worth it. |
| United States | The Big Lebowski taught me to, just take it easy, man.. |
| United States | I learned that the best way to live life is to not worry. The Dude does not worry, others around him worry and complicate things. When the Dude does not worry, all is good. Just kick back, enjoy your White Russian, and let the good times flow. |
| United States | I learned that you can say what you want about the tenets of national socialism, at least it’s an ethos! |
| United States | That something rather unfortunate will happen to you (or somebody who lives on your block) if you fuck a stranger in the ass. |
| Netherlands | You can be the top of your game and be satisfied about it, a game where there are no finish lines, no championship titles, no prize money or competitors who think playing the same game and you cannot loose no matter what (even when the competitors claim they won, but then again they were playing a different game after all.) So nothing is fucked up man. |
| United States | What I have learned from The Big Lebowski is to always follow your ‘Inner Dude’. You may second guess yourself, but in the end your Inner Dude will never let you down. |
| United States | “The Big Lebowski” taught me that this is not ’Nam, and there are rules. It taught me what happens when you fuck a stranger in the ass. But most of all, it taught me to just relax, man, and take life one White Russian at a time. |
| United Kingdom | What I’ve learned from The Big Lebowski is that its alright to just chill out sometimes and lay about, have a good time with friends and see what happens along the way because you don’t need mass amounts of money to really enjoy yourself but at the same time I suppose it does help lol.
At the moment I am looking for a job but I’m not to worried about it, which is what I reckon being a dude is all about in some ways. Keep the faith x |
| United States | I think that the one thing that I’ve learned (that has a practical use anyhow) is that sometimes, life is just not your friend, and others times, it’s your best buddy. |
| United States | That a good rug can really tie a room together, man. |
| United States | I’ve learned a lot from The Big Lebowski. I’ll stick to writing about what I learned about friendship from watching The Big Lebowski. The relationship between Donny and Walter especially has been insightful. There is a mix of antagonism and care that I see a lot in the relationships between myself and my male friends. I like the core dynamic there, but I found myself turned off by the intensity of the animosity that appeared between them. I was able to see that my relationships were imbalanced, and I was able to help better balance those components of male relationships. |
| United States | The big lebowski is my favorite movie. I now dabble in pacifism, and am way more laid back because of watching the dude. I’m a lebowski, you’re a lebowski. |
| United States | I’ve learned to chill, man… |
| United States | I used to be pretty high strung. kinda like walter. Then after i watched the big lebowski i really dug the attitude and the overall lesson. the lesson i learned is ” fuck it,man.” You cant let shit get to you. But then again, fuck it is what all the bums say. So when i got passed over for a promotion at work a month ago you know what i said? “Steve can have that position, he is a fuckin ass kissing fuckhead anyway!” Later, after i calmed down, i said fuck it man. Pretty solid advice. Fuck it, lets go bowling. |
| United States | i learned what happpens when you F a stranger in the A and that walter did not watch his buddies lie face down in the muck so some strumpet can owe money all over town |
| United States | No matter how you feel about the Eagles, keep it to yourself if it ain’t your cab. |
| United States | I have learned from the dude in his ways of dealing with life. He is famous for taking it easy in the face of danger and overall not really caring. He prefers the simpler things in life and the bigger issues can be dealt with with a simple, ‘fuck it’. You might have all the problems in the world, or maybe just a little piss on a carpet that really tied the room together, but either way you can take hold of the situation by taking life as it is. With the dude, I ride the waves of life on my board of neutrality and balance. Shit happens but I’ll always act very dudelike. |
| United Kingdom | Watching The Big Lebowski helped signify and expand my overall recognition that every action is interlocked with another, no matter how (in)significant either of them is. Through each action there may be a consequence that affects one or more people hugely (possibly to life changing levels) though in a realistic, world encompassing view, these consequences and subsequent events are largely irrelevant and to the point; not to get stressed about. |
| United States | This is a tough question to answer, but I’ll give it the old college try. One thing it taught me was the word “micturate,” as in “every time a rug is micturated upon in this fair city, I have to compensate the owner?” It’s a great word and a lot of people don’t know it, which is a great travesty. It also taught me that it’s entirely acceptable to bite someone else’s linguistic style (to use the parlance of our times) and recycle their turns of phrase for use in conversation with others.
It also confirmed my long-standing suspicions that a) the guys in Metallica are assholes and b)it’s entirely possible to subsist (nay thrive) on a steady diet of Caucasians, weed, beer, and coffee. It provided me with songs I’d never heard and have since learned to love (e.g. “Dead Flowers,” “The Man in Me,” and “Her Eyes Are A Blue Million Miles”) and reminded me of how great other songs were (e.g. “Lookin’ Out My Back Door,” “Just Dropped In.”) It taught me that my hatred for the Eagles was righteous and that there’s no shame in writing a check for $0.69. And, not to downplay the importance of the above lessons, because believe you me, they’ve largely brought me to where I am today, but the most important thing The Big Lebowski has taught me is that there’s not a damn thing wrong with “takin’ ‘er easy.” In a society where most denizens derive their feelings of self-worth from the amount of trivial enterprises they can pursue in a day, it’s nice to have someone like the Dude standing in stark contrast to the status quo. Like an urban Thoreau, he invites us to simplify our lives, cut loose the extraneous bullshit, and abide. |
| United States | I learned what happens when you find a stranger in the alps, and it ain’t good. |
| United States | Until I saw The Big Lebowski for the fourth time, I didn’t ‘get it’. I didn’t know what it was that made the movie feel so comforting to me, why I had watched it once a year for the past four years but in 2002, when seeing it that fourth time, something actually clicked and The Big Lebowski changed my worldview. Very shortly therafter I finally realized that I didn’t have to stay married in a dull conventional marriage, I did not have to own a house, a new car, be what others wanted me to be. I could just BE the Dude I was always meant to be; the woman who slacked her entire life, who lived ‘in the moment’ so much she thought herself a Buddhist but wasn’t really into the whole religious thang. The Dude taught me to embrace things just as they were, and when I wasn’t ‘being Dude’, when my ‘inner Walter’ came through, I could just hang with that, and let my inner-asshole come and go, and know that I would eventually find myself back in that relaxed place, calmer than before, and more open to having more truly authentic moments in my life.
It cleared my head of all that nonsense, man, it allowed me to do the things I have since done on my own terms; becoming a first time parent at 39 years old in 2003, wearing bathrobes to take my kid to school and to the market, and while riding my beach-cruiser through the neighborhood White Russian in one hand, and ringing the bike-bell with the other. I am a woman who calls everyone ‘Dude’ and hopes like hell that those she so easily bestows the title upon will indeed BE Dudes, and will treat their compeers accordingly. And that ’bout sums ‘er up regarding what I learned from The Big Lebowski! |
| United States | Working in the high-paced journalism industry, stress is easy to come by. But The Dude taught me not to take everything so heavily and allow things to happen. Sometimes things are good, sometimes not so much.
Also, even if things get a little to stressful to just abide, there’s nothing a little bowling and a white russian can’t fix. |
| United States | To be in the moment and not mess with the Dude. |
| Greece | I learned what I(!) wanted to learn … and that’s what I learned! |
| United States | Until I saw The Big Lebowski for the fourth time, I didn’t ‘get it’. I didn’t know what it was that made the movie feel so comforting to me, why I had watched it once a year for the past four years but in 2002, when seeing it that fourth time, something actually clicked and The Big Lebowski changed my worldview. Very shortly therafter I finally realized that I didn’t have to stay married in a dull conventional marriage, I did not have to own a house, a new car, be what others wanted me to be. I could just BE the Dude I was always meant to be; the woman who slacked her entire life, who lived ‘in the moment’ so much she thought herself a Buddhist but wasn’t really into the whole religious thang. The Dude taught me to embrace things just as they were, and when I wasn’t ‘being Dude’, when my ‘inner Walter’ came through, I could just hang with that, and let my inner-asshole come and go, and know that I would eventually find myself back in that relaxed place, calmer than before, and more open to having more truly authentic moments in my life.
It cleared my head of all that nonsense, man, it allowed me to do the things I have since done on my own terms; becoming a first time parent at 39 years old in 2003, wearing bathrobes to take my kid to school and to the market, and while riding my beach-cruiser through the neighborhood White Russian in one hand, and ringing the bike-bell with the other. I am a woman who calls everyone ‘Dude’ and hopes like hell that those she so easily bestows the title upon will indeed BE Dudes, and will treat their compeers accordingly. And that ’bout sums ‘er up regarding what I learned from The Big Lebowski! |
| United States | That Jews don’t roll on Shabbos, Nihilists are nothing to be afraid of, that “fuckin’ fascists” love their nightly coffee, but most importantly, that the Dude abides, and is out there takin’ her easy for all us sinners. The Big Lebowski is a film on religion, politics, friendship, bowling and coitus… what’s the point of education outside of this movie?? |
| Canada | Be like the dude; break the monotony of a decorous age. That’s what I’ve learned from the Big Lebowski… yeah. |
| Netherlands | I have learned that whatever happens, from good to bad, it will all fall into place, if you just relax, sit back and enjoy the ride along the road that leads you to it. |
| United States | That the Dude abides. |
| United Kingdom | That donny liked to bowl. And surf. Oh and also that you can’t really control wage events of life so just do what you want to do because if shit is going to go down, then it will. |
| United States | never fuck a starnger in the ass, and you dont fuckin roll on shabas!! |
| Canada | You really always need to have that friend that’ll back you no matter what the fuck you got goin on.
And…never let go of that rug, especially if it ties the room together. |
| United States | Never spend money on rugs. Things that I think tie my room together, and my life together just end up getting pissed on. And then I get all un-Dude like
The Dude taught me that you just can’t worry about that sort of shit. Life goes on. |
| United States | Dont sweat the small stuff. Life goes on…even if you got a rash, man.
Sometimes it’s OK to tell a small lie and say something went “alright” and your friend’s car got a little dinged up even if the task really went horribly wrong. You shouldn’t assume that you got fucked in the ass just because you see a corvette outside a stranger’s house. Some poor souls cannot love in the true sense of the word. It is called satyriasis in men, nymphomania in women. |
| United States | I learned to stand upwind when dumping deceased friends ashes out of coffee cans at the beach. |
| United States | I have learned that bad things happen to everyone, even people who are relaxed,cool and hate The Eagles. |
| United States | Sometimes you eat the bar. Sometimes the bar, she eats you. |
| Norway | Whenever there’s something wrong meine kabel, all I need is an exzpert. |
| United States | Don’t piss on other peoples rugs! |
| United States | The Big Lebowski teaches us all that sometimes there’s man. And, Well. Sometimes there’s a man. |
| United States | That I truly do- Hate the fuckin Eagles!!! |
| United States | I have learned what happens if you fuck a stranger in the ass. So as a precaution, I park my car in the garage and I never discard tests in abandoned cars. |
| United States | I learned not to take myself so seriously, and not to take seriously what other people think either. This is a funny movie that addresses real life problems, misunderstandings, lack of clarity, tolerance for the mentally ill and those different from ourselves, and the final lesson that life is finite, it ends, and the importance of living our lives in a way that does not harm others. Other things that come to mind is that greed is evil, and that pot is a good solution to anxiety, boredom and depression.
The Great Lebowski is first and foremost hilarious entertainment. I watch it when I need to detach from what is really going on in life and find comfort in knowing that no matter how bad things may be now, they could be worse. |
| United Kingdom | Nothing is something worth doing. |
| United States | Life is to important to take it to seriously |
| Ireland | I learned not to be so anal about everything and to step back, relax and enjoy my life more. |
| United States | How to live life properly |
| United States | I learned that drawing a firearm during league play violates a number of the league’s bylaws as well as the existence of nihilism. |
| United States | It’s not nice to piss on The Dude’s carpet. |
| United States | Get your rug back, no matter what. |
| United States | Friendship can overcome many of life’s numerous obstacles…including nihilists, pederasts, artists, pornographers, kegglers, carpet pissers and more.
However, massive doses of Black Russians and daily “j’s” provide a tremendous assist. |
| United States | You know, a lotta ins, lotta outs, lotta what-have-you’s. |
| United States | I learned how to make a mean white Russian… And the true greatness of Creedance. |
| Netherlands | bathrobes are awesome |
| Canada | Lebowski has taught me to appreciate what I have, to enjoy the little things and not to take anything too seriously. Though in the real world, I don’t know many landlords that would be cool with rent on the 10th.
Excluding the Dude, the film’s characters all seem to be striving for more. More money, more respect, more acceptance; which is in direct opposition to the Dude’s raison d’etre. The dude seems satisfied with his few comforts and content to live his life the way he wants. This satisfaction is rare and is truly inspiring as most of us don’t take the time to dwell on what we have or what we’ve accomplished and are always looking out to the next. Which sounds exhausting. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t believe all people would be happy living like the dude, but the point is that he is happy. Happy until fortune frowns on him, that is. Donnie wants to be included, Walter wants to be noticed, Jackie Treehorn wants to get paid, Maude wants respect, the Big Lebowski wants to be revered, the nihilists want comfort without true effort and Bunny wants status. All the dude ever wanted was his rug back. How amazing is life if happiness is found in what you already have! |
| United States | I learned that I am, obviously, not a golfer. I learned the value of accessorising a room. I learned how easily available severed toes, with or without polish, actually are and how fun marmets can be in a bath tub. Most importantly, though, I learned to just go with the flow, always be myself and how to make a killer Caucasian… |
| United States | That even if my day was bad, to try and roll with it like The Dude would! |
| United States | I have learned to not take myself or others to seriously. To just sit back relax and take life in. Not to stress out about money or work. To just enjoy life and live it how I want to. |
| Germany | I’ve learned to calm down and to enjoy “White Russian” a lot. :-) |
| United States | How to enjoy the simple things in life, and how to make a mean white Russian. |
| United States | There’s a man for his time and place, a man out there taking it easy for all us sinners. |
| United States | The Dudes Abides . . . |
| United States | Three things: 1) That the Supreme Court has roundly rejected prior restraint, 2) that it is unlawful to keep an amphibious rodent as a pet within the city, and 3) that the cremated remains of a human will fit in an empty Ralph’s coffee can. |
| United States | I have learned the benefits of taking it easy; life is far more enjoyable by taking the easier path and not listening to the Eagles. Check the half and half before purchasing it. That the squares will never care about the dudeist, other than as the inevitable fall guy for their schemes.
Friends, even when assholes, are the straws that stir the drink. Never roll on Shabbus. Don’t assume that the toe, metaphysical or real, comes from whom you believe it was separated. Don’t allow unscrupulous funeral directors to take advantage of the bereaved. Never leave your homework assignment in a car that you’ve stolen. Finally, check the contents of the briefcase before you agree to deliver it. |
| United States | This aggression will not stand man*smoking thai stick and occupying various administrative buildings can cause memory loss!*Some of the most famous mythical and historical wars were fought over women* Women kidnap themselves* arthur digby sellars lives over by the in and out burger* being a nihulist is exhausting*There are a lot of strands man, a lot of strands, in the old duders head! This movie is exceptional and has a lot of wisdom behind its humor, yet most individuals don’t have the brain capacity to break it down and digest any decent philosophy behind its humor! If you don’t get it the first time its alright, your human! If you can get anything out of it the second and third viewing I suggest you lock yourself in a closet or somewhere you can continue your nieve sheltered existence as an airheaded vegtable who couldn’t find there way out of a paper bag! |
| United States | I learned that most things in life are unimportant, and that no matter how rough things get, even if others label you weird, or a freak, or a loser, live life your own way. Be happy, take it easy, being content is more important than having it all. Just look at the Dude. Don’t let society box you in and label you :) |
| Netherlands | The Dude taught me that life is something that happens when you’re drinking a white russian. There’s very little you should do to influence it, instead; just go with the flow of whatever life throws at you. |
| United States | After watching The Big Lebowski I realized how important it is to really enjoy the place you live in. The Dude was after his rug that “really tied the room together”. Without it, his house wasn’t a complete home. The secondary lesson there is to go far lengths for things you really want, and with drive comes success. |
| Canada | Since I was a child, The Big Lebowski has been my favourite movie – something I’ve always shared with my pops. Over the years, I’ve introduced the movie and, subsequently, my obsession with it to many people, for better or for worse. The response I get more often then not is something along the lines of “that movie made no sense”, or “what was the point? Nothing happened!”. Usually, it’s at around the third viewing that people begin to realize the subtle beauty of this work of art.
Getting this confused response from so many of my compadres has made me reflect and conclude that they are, in fact, mostly right. Nothing really changes from the beginning to the end of the movie. The Dude remains Dudely, Walter remains disturbed, and Lebowski remains a miserable old prick. With the exception of Donnie, not much differs. It’s from this fact that I learned my most important lesson from The Big Lebowski. We’ve gotten too uptight in our thinking. We tend to be very un-Dude by, for example, planning too much. Planning leads us to put so much thought on the ultimate goal, that we miss the beautiful experience that takes up most of our lives – the journey. The Stranger is the one to point it out for us, as his narrative frames the movie. He reminds us that although not too much has changed at the end, the journey is a helluva a story and a more important learning experience. Life is just a string of journeys, and all we can really do is sit back with some oat sodas and some good friends and ride them out. That is what The Big Lebowski taught me, and I try to live my life every day accordingly. |
| United States | I learned to protect my face from thugs that want to push my face into the toilette. |
| United States | The Big Lebowski taught me that you should stop living in the past. Whether your past was good or bad, it is important to get over it because you are not living in reality. This was shown in two examples throughout the movie: the Nihlists, and Walter’s last connection with his ex-wife through Judaism. The nihlists believe in nothing and pretend to have kidnapped bunny because of their failure of their band “Autobahn.” They do not want to accept that they are no longer on top, so they decide to doubt all reality in nihlism. Because they are focused on revenge and have not let go of the past, they seek to take from the successful in society- The Big Lebowski. If the Nihlists had just accepted their failure and moved on to bigger and better opportunities, they would not have lost a toe and an ear and would save themselves from embarrasment in America and would have saved the life of poor Donny. Walter, on the other hand, is following Judaism more strictly than ever now that he is divorced from his ex-wife, the person he converted for. When his religion starts effecting his friends and bowling, it is clear that Judaism is the last connection Walter has with his ex-wife, and he is not over the divorce. If Walter stops living in the past and gets over his divorce, he could save his friends and himself a lot of stress. I’m not saying that he should give up Judaism, but maybe he should find the perfect balance between religion and his friends, because getting back together is not a reality. |
| United States | Sometimes there’s a man, sometimes, there’s a man… |
| Portugal | I have learned from this fantastic tale, that it’s not just about beeing there…you know?…it’s not just about an opportunity that rolls through the window, you need to have something inside, something good and honorable that will get you there, even though the occasional white russian may help. i have learned that complete disconnection is impossible, from society, friends, the opposite sex, whatever…, a little feeling of attatchement will get you a long way. in the end of the day, i guess i learned to abide…”say friend, you have some more of that fine sassparilla?… “ |
| United States | The most reassuring way to live comes down to two simple things:
First: Abide. Let it happen because to use the parlance of our times, “Fuck it.” Sometimes you eat the bear, and well, you know the rest… And second, to expound on the first idea, it’s important to keep in mind: Life goes on, man. |
| United States | To never fuck a stranger in the ass. |
| United States | Honestly, and it might sound cheesy, but the line “Nothing is fucked here, dude.” truly resounds through my life. Whenever I hit a roadblock in life, instead of spending my time worrying about it, I simply remember that and figure out a way around it without wasting time stressing about it. |
| United States | I learned that a Shomer Shabbos doesn’t roll on Saturdays. I also learned what happens when you fuck a stranger in the ass (I was previously unaware of the consequences). |
| United States | Sometimes you eat the bear, and sometimes… well he eats you. |
| United States | You want a toe? I can get you a toe, believe me. There are ways, Dude. You don’t wanna know about it, believe me. Hell, I can get you a toe by 3 o’clock this afternoon… with nail polish. |
| United States | In the summer of ’99, when I was 11, my dad brought home The Big Lebowski. The next day before he went to work he told my sisters and I, “Don’t watch this movie!” As soon as he was gone, it was in the VCR! That summer I learned that The Dude abides. That it’s okay to relax, to be comfortable and that nhilism doesn’t get you shit, except a shitty taste in music. To make sure if you’re going to spread ashes, be downwind, and don’t let a vet do it. That stories don’t stop and start at someone elses convienence. If someone doesn’t hear their phone going off, a little “Phone’s ringing, dude” goes a long way. That there’s no shame in writing checks for under a dollar. Most importantly, I learned life happens. What’s the point in getting all pissed off about it? Fuck it. |
| United States | Short answer: The Dude abides. What this means to me is that a dude can handle any situation by relaxing his expectations and by dealing with the issues as they come. He doesn’t ever sweat. He is like James Bond but with a lot less douchery. |
| United States | I have learned that “it” is down there somewhere, if we only take another look. I have learned that one need not seek sympathy indeed, there is no NEED for sympathy, if one has one’s Johnson. I have learned that one need not covet multitudes of fine things, for all it takes is a humble, Persian rug to really tie the room together. I have learned that if one is offered extraordinary hospitality by a beautiful young lady, one should not sweat the financial consideration but should graciously accept and seek out the nearest cash machine. And of course, I have learned that nobody fucks with the Jesus. Live by this knowledge and one may long abide. |
| United States | Top 10 things I have learned by being obsessed with the movie The Big Lebowski
Lebowski, Lebowski, Lebowski…….lets see what have I learned? 1. Never date a boy that hasn’t seen The Big Lebowski. 2. There were no rules in ‘Nam. 3. Jellies never go out of style. 4. There is an In N Out near Radcliff. 5. Don’t try to spread ashes while its windy. 6. Sometimes you eat the bar, sometimes the bar eats you. 7. Don’t go over the line when bowling. 8. Nobody fucks with the Jesus. 9. I love the word strumpet. 10. If I really wanted, there are ways to find a toe in LA county, with nail polish. Abidingly, Ms. Ariel Sherman |
| United States | The number one thing that I learned from Lebowski is that being a nihilist is verrrrry un-Dude. |
| Germany | The Big Lebowski is not about the obvious things.
I still don’t like Bowling very much; not even White Russians. Carpets are nice, that’s true, but I’m not missing them nevertheless. The Big Lebowski is about someone who is totally happy with himself and his own companionship. It’s about someone who is an outcast in the very heart of our society, and about someone with a refreshing touch of “Fuck-off-and-leave-me-alone”, only in a little bit more sophisticated or smoothed version. If we ever need a hero of the 20st century, this is our man: Unwilling to accept ideologies (bowling doesn’t count), honest, straightforward. He also wears the coolest sunglasses ever seen, this must be worth something. Plus he’ s the one who pays his milk with a cheque. In the end, it kind of is about the obvious things, too. |
| United States | The most important lesson I have learned from watching the Big Lebowski is to ultimately take is easy. Life is too short for worrying about trivial things. For us to let our troubles fall by the way side just like The Dude is the best way to live. We should not focus on the things we can’t have or the stress that falls into our laps. That will only hold us down and make things harder. We just need to live for today and pursue happiness whether it be found at the bowling alley with friends and oat sodas or just lounging around the house in a bath robe with a White Russian in hand. The world will keep spinning no matter what we do or how we handle life’s situations. So fuhgedabadit and take it easy, man. And no matter what happens always be the one to say, “I’m calmer than you are.” |
| Canada | – Exposing yourself to 8 year olds will net you time in Chino
– Coffee tins make great urns – How to make a white Russian – Donnie is out of his element – Take things as they come. Sometimes great things can come from a seemingly bad situation (and th |
| United States | I have leaned that i have a sick sense of humor. |
| United States | After watching ‘The Big Lebowski’, I have to say that I have learned many things. For instance, never call the Malibu police chief a fascist, never diss the Eagles, Jackie Treehorn makes one hell of a Caucasian, Nihilism gets you nowhere, Donnie loves his orange soda, Sioux city sarsaparilla is a pretty good drink, Walter’s ex-wife is a b****, Maude has some pretty strange friends, always take advice from Strangers at a bowling alley, ‘Branded’ kicked ass, you can never find the money in the toilet no matter how many times you look, do not shout in a diner, there are ways to find a toe with nail polish that nobody should know about, veterans in wheel chairs are more than likely not faking their injury no matter how much they achieve, do not piss on rugs unless your name is Wu, but the most important thing that i learned from watching the greatest movie of all time is that no matter what happens in your life, the one secret of getting through it is to look at yourself in a mirror and say “THE DUDE ABIDES”. Live that every day and you can go out and achieve anyways, even if Ralph’s no longer accepts your checks.
The Dude Abides forever Ben |
| Italy | the most important lesson I learned is that even the dude can be the right man at the right time |
| United States | It’s all about levels…man. |
| United States | A rug really ties a room together, man. |
| United Kingdom | That we have a jeffrey lebowski inside of us,and green nail varnish always reminds me of this awesome movie. Discovered a new way of life and finally a religion I can fully believe in. Nice marmet man. |
| Australia | Not being a man of faith, or familiar with Jewish traditions, I was surprised to learn that you sure as shit don’t roll on Shabbos. Also, I was intrigued as to how easy it is to get a toe, with nail polish! |
| United States | The Dude abides……… |
| United States | I have learned not only that we are powerless to many circumstances that unfold around us, but also that bad karma begets bad karma. I feel like walter really compounded The Dude’s misfortune by throwing the ringer and attempting to keep the entire million. I do realize that the events most likely would have unfolded the same because a ringer was thrown out for a ringer and that was the big lebowskis plan in the first place. However, I feel that adding deception on walters part added unnecessary negativity to the situation. I’ve also learned that when the universe unfolds a different way than you feel it should, just say “Fuck It!” and go bowling. |
| United States | The dude abides and so should I! |
| United States | I learned that the right rug will bring out the best in any room. |
| United States | The Dude abides. And there is someone out there taking ‘er easy out there for all of us. |
| United Kingdom | Sometimes you eat the bear, and sometimes, well, he eats you. |
| United States | I always knew how pointless life was… but after watching The Big Lebowski, I’ve learned how to enjoy that life.
Yes that means i wear robes on occasion. |
| United States | That I really, really like White Russians…and that they are really, really under-appreciated! |
| France | Knowledge and Curiosity are bad ass fellows. Better hang out with Comfort, he’s not such a trouble maker. |
| United States | to never fuck a stranger in the ass. And when one is in a hostage negoitation situation, do not use your dirty undwear as a ringer or else a nhilist may cutt off his girlfriends toe thinking that there would be getting a million dollars.
and lastly, that I hate the fucking eagles man. |
| Cyprus | All i’ve learned from The Big Lebowski, is to take the life as it go. Rich doesnt mean happy, and always enjoy whatever you like with good company. Also that dont be to harsh with your frends cas you never know whats next |
| United States | Brevity |
| United States | Playing by the rules really is very important to a lot of people |
| United States | The Jesus can roll,Walter can find me a toe “by 3 o’clock”
,the dude’s rug really tied the room,you can write a check for .69cents at Ralph’s! Donny please shut the fuck up! |
| Germany | That even though I am only studying Engish and Literature and therefore may not get a well payed Job, I will always have my friends to live a happy life…..and Bowling of course. |
| United States | That some times all you need to bring it all together is a good rug. |
| United States | Life is short, and it’s a struggle when you’re always out of your element. The best thing to do is bowl a bit, drink a beer, and stay away from dangerous people. RIP Donny… may you blow in the wind like all the answers, my friend. |
| United States | The Big Lebowski taught me the irony in life and to let go of the little things. At times I’m as laid back as The Dude, as high-strung as Walter, or as lost as Donny, but I figure that’s a damn good mix. |
| Canada | The most important thing I learned from The big lebowski, and especially the role of The Dude, Is that life will always throw you an oddball here and there but we just need to roll with the ups and downs on this crazy ride. We should look at situations from multiple point of views and make up our own opinion on how we want to live our lives. |
| United States | I’ve learned not to talk back to the nihalists,and bowling is more than just a game. Also, try and keep at least a thousand cash on you at all times. |
| United States | Life isn’t that serious. Take it easy, live smooth…Man. |
| United States | Why we invaded Iraq, at least the first time around. |
| United States | Don’t give up on what you can Achieve in life. ”Progress & Perfect |
| United States | I learned that there are things which are out of your control and it is sometimes better to say fuck it and enjoy what you have. And I found a new favorite beverage. |
| United States | I discovered White Russians!! And my belief in the essential sartorial correctness of wearing one’s bathrobe in any social setting was confirmed. |
| United States | That The Dude abides. I take comfort in that. It’s good knowin’ he’s out there. The Dude. Takin’ ‘er easy for all us sinners. |
| United States | That, whatever you think about the tenets of national socialism, at least it’s an ethos. And that White Russians are tasty. And that The Dude is about the best friend anyone could want. |
| United States | I SHALL FOREVER ABIDE |
| United States | Sometimes you eat the bear, and sometimes the bear eats you. |
| United States | Strong men also cry.. |
| Italy | to live! taking life not too seriously sometimes is the deepest thing you can do. |
| United States | Well…like what I want to say about it man is…you know how things just…what was the question? |
| United Kingdom | Don’t buy expensive persian rugs which you mind people pissing on. |
| Australia | I’ve learnt to go with the flow, or a the great hunter s Thompson concluded “So this is how the world works, all energy flows according to the whims of the great magnet.”
The dude (and all of us) are just leaves traveling down stream not know where the ebbs and flows of the universe will take us. Where the dude succeeded (in terms of navigating life) was being able to except any given circumstance, sip a white Russian, and tackle the problem with the same laid back attitude. The dude recognised this was the nature of the universe and accepted his fate (read: the dude abides) Since coming to this conclusion my life has been stress free, full of adventure and a contins strong desire to see what’s downstream. |
| United States | I learned that this is not Nam, there are rules… |
| United States | I’ve learned how to just let things go, enjoy life, and go with the flow of things. There are so many crazy things going on around all of us in this temporary existance that really aren’t that important. Let things go, go with the flow, smile, breathe, and abide. |
| United States | It’s ok if your language is dirty, as long as your balls are clean.
Love is a four letter word and so is F*%# all the world is water in the mind of a duck. Quoting an ancient mariner rhyme just created by myself “Ashes to ashes dust to face, burial at sea? Check the wind in the space.” Bad things happen when you ‘find a stranger in the Alps’ if you’re out of your element, and you don’t know what to say, say “I am the Walrus” (It may sound stupid, but at least it’s an ethos) If you can…always carry a thousand dollars in your pocket. keep your friends (and lady friends) close and your beverage level, feeding your ego is a dance with the devil the human comedy will keep perpetuating itself whether you laugh or not whether you enjoy it or not no cash no clue no hope no rug? just keep dancing even if it’s the Eagles on the radio this too shall pass….. More? … the bums may have lost the battle but they have not lost the war. Abide |
| United States | How to abide…but, like that’s just my opinion… |
| United States | I’ve seen The Big Lebowski numerous times (once in a theater!) and I am surprised each time by something new I take away from the movie. Perhaps the biggest thing I’ve learned from Lebowski is that details matter. Whether its to manipulate the truth or to understand it, details really matter.
This is probably the first lesson I learned from Lebowski and though that comes through right away it takes about three viewings for it to really sink in and stick. |
| Canada | I’ve learned from watching The Big Lebowski:
secrets to keeping one’s mind limber, how to tell if a guy is married and what makes him a man, what’s needed to truly tie a room together, exactly why young men died face down in the mud, that random micturition happens to you a lot if you’re a deadbeat, that life does not stop and start at my command, the identity of one member of the Seattle Seven, that encounters with ‘free-spirited ladies’ are seldom cheap, how to play one side against the other, fabulously…, that there are ways to get you a toe (with nail polish), where the biggest erogenous zone is…. on most people, local social studies scores and car thefts may be correlated, where the pope shits, that ‘rocks’ are as effective as bowling balls, to never trust a drink mixed by a man who treats objects like women, that dealing with Nihilists rarely costs ‘nothing’, to respect Shabos (even if it don’t matter to Jesus), to ease up on my cussin’ without being afraid to say ‘Vagina’ (I may have to consult the Supreme Court on that one though) what happens when you f**k a stranger in the ass (or even find one in the alps!), that even a ringer’s ringer can not look empty, that Karl Hungus seldom fixes the cable, to stay outta fascist run reactionary beach communities in Malibu (hey, at least it’s an ethos!), that ‘The Bar’ may or may not be at the top of the food chain, that you should never insult a cabbie’s choice of music, that even feminists enjoy certain natural zesty enterprises, that I should try to hang onto my frame of reference as much as possible if I want to contribute to any discussion, that Metallica are a ‘buncha assholes’, that perverts can be great bowlers. Pacifists? Not so much, not to assume that the bereaved are saps to take care when a beverage is present, that the skill of animal classification in LA isn’t as highly developed as elsewhere, though they are well versed in human nomenclature, that ‘the asshole’ often questions if he’s wrong but knows with certainty who’s calmest and who’s kidnapped..st. that there is ALWAYS are more modestly priced receptacle if you’re willing to look for it, how to finally kill a car, and that contrary to certain people’s beliefs the bums don’t always lose! My other answer, if you’re into the whole brevity thing would’ve been: What did I learn from The Big Lebowski? Ah…fuck it… |
| United States | I have learned that threatening castration is tantamount to Nazism, I have learned more about the laws governing ownership of aquatic mammals, I have learned what happens when you fuck a stranger in the ass, and I have learned that the greatest goal in this life is to abide. |
| United States | Dude! |
| Sweden | Trying to get my mind around value nihilism I often think about the scene in The Big Lebowski when Walter says, after the nihilist have been kicked in the nut sack – and said: “it is not fair”, “and you call your self a nihilist”. I can´t say I learned that nihilism could be pragmatically inconsistent. But there is something deeply suspicious with the position of being a nihilism and still talking morals. |
| United States | That micturate is a great synonym for piss. And that nihilists believe in nothing, Lebowski. |
| United States | One can learn many messages from The Big Lebowski, though I believe the overwhelming theme here is to not take life so seriously. Throughout many of the distraughtining events that affected the Dude he (mostly) kept his composure. When the rent was due on the ninth, Dude didnt fret, he knew he would get the money and everything would be okay. Now this isn’t to say we should be running around quitting our jobs and throwing care to the wind, but we could manage a little. When the Dude was under threat of his johnson being cut, Dude took this very seriously, as you or I would. When the nihilists showed up at the parking lot, to enact their threats, Dude was willing to make a deal to save his Johnson, but was unnecessary due to, well, we know why.
What I’m trying to say here is man that in stead of being the paranoid, cautious, pretentious people we sometime catch ourselves being, if we all put a little bit more Dude in our lives, we would be having such a better journey then the one we’re having know. So dudes in conclusion, we should always be as dude as possible, but don’t be afraid to let out your Walter. After all, who knows what would of happened to Dude if Walter hadn’t been around? Thanks guys |
| United States | New shit’s come to light, man! |
| Chile | To abide and go with the flow. And to keep it cool, man, like when someone messes with you, but you just want to drink a white russian… man those white russian are good man…
ehm… I lost my train of thought here… |
| United States | Just kick back and enjoy the view of life. Also white russians are awesome. |
| United States | The Lebowski has taught me how to be in touch with my inner dude. To tell it like it is, and love the life you have. AND….YOU CAN ALWAYS GET A NEW RUG! |
| United States | Newton taught me that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. Do something and you will likely create a problem for yourself. The Dude has taught me that if you chill out, do nothing and stay out of your own way, problems can resolve themselves. Basically, have a drink, take a nap and wake up to a better world… |
| Germany | I have learned that i should react more relaxed on the fucked up situations in my life.
And this really helped me to achieve a job which is paid ok , but what i learned also is that money doesnt matter aslong im not happy . The big lebowski was a great movie |
| Germany | Learned to take it easy, even when I was down in the dumps. As shitty as some days may be, there are buddys dying face down in the muck whose days are a lot shittier. So abide. |
| United States | Watching The Big Lebowski has taught me the importance of disorganization, the perpetuation of confusion, the necessity for acceptance, and most of all how to truly abide. The way of the Dude teaches me the ability to embrace the philosophical problem of entropy with a beautiful synthesis of ordering one’s own life through disorder. |
| Australia | The value of friendship |
| United States | I learned what fatuous means. And I found a tribe of people who totally understand my sense of humor. |
| United States | That the Supreme court has roundly rejected prior restraint. When I took a civics class, my teacher confirmed this. |
| United States | The Big Lebowski has taught me what Shabbos is, and why I shan’t roll on it. |
| United States | I have learned not only is it a waste of time and creative energy to worry about things and people you cannot change, but that taking oneself too seriously causes just as much worry — which is the part that one can easily change. I love the parallels with Taoism and thus became an ordained Dudeist — along with my best friend, or my “Dude” on the same day. When we have a rough couple of weeks, we have “Lebowski” night with the film, White Russians, a little doobage and after film discussions. Our way to and say, Fuck it, Dude. It is the best pop-culture Zen there is…aside from bowling. |
| United States | If you have a rug that really ties the room together, make sure you don’t have the same name as someone else who might cause carpet pissers to be sent to your house. |
| United States | I’ve learned that when life gives you lemons, you say thanks for the free lemons man. Then go home mix a caucasian, adhere to my strict drug regiment and take a bath, Dude.
Life is like a bowling man, what goes around comes around, even if it doesn’t go exactly where you wanted it to, but no matter what, it gets to the end of line…and thats something I can really take comfort in, you know? Just love everyone, even if you want them to shut the fuck up sometimes. |
| Norway | I learned what happen when you fuck people in the ass ! |
| Canada | I have Learned from the big lebowski to abide and to never trust a nihilist or a ferret! |
| Iceland | I learned that life can take you in some weird directions and that I should not worry so much about what happens and just go with the flow. I also learned to appreciate my friends because they can suddenly leave my life. |
| United Kingdom | My Fellow dudes,
Firstly, I have learnt I am not alone (even if the film is entirely from the Coen brothers imagination, it means it must be out there. Everything we can imagine has, or will happen, probably. Except for that Iron Sky shit! Nazis on the Moon waiting for us, not likely! We’d have found them in 69. OR would we? Maybe they’re on the other side! Shit.). Other things I have learned (I maybe knew these but there’s nothing wrong with a bit of confirmation of your thinking): If you are cool with all those around you, do not expect the same in return. But stick to your guns and most will respect you for it. If you must engage with the crazier of your friends, expect bad / crazy things to happen. Comfotable slippers and Afgan / dressing gown are essential to easy living. Chase up any wrong doing that has been done to you, but take it easy while you do it. Don’t get in anyones face man, creates a bad vibe. Never steal or disturb another amans beverage. Buy a rug, you’d be surprised how much it ties the room together. That’s all I can think of right now. Take it easy. Jim |
| Australia | What have I learned?
Hmm interesting question, I learned that life is short, (Donny)and it is important to not sweat the small stuff and to go after what is precious to you (rug). to have a sense of humour in the face of adversity (obviously your not a golfer), and to use any opportunity to have a beverage. Most importantly it is important to just be yourself. The dudes whole persona is based around being true to one self. |
| United States | To just take’er easy when a chinaman pisses on your rug that really ties the room together. And that there is even hope for us Walters that walk the world. |
| Germany | The dude showed me that no matter how much is going on , you got to always focus on your main goal. |
| United States | That you wind up treating people a little better than they ought to be (look at the crap dude puts up with Walter). Sometimes you gotta say “fuck it, let’s go bowling”. And even at your worst moment you’ve gotta say “Take it easy, man” |
| United States | The Big Lebowski has showed me how I want to live. The Dude doesn’t sweat the small stuff in life and simply wants to enjoy his time on earth with his two best friends. He doesn’t care about the trivial stuff in life or worry when the plan goes to shit, even if the plan is a swiss fucking watch. It taught me to live my own life and stop worrying about everything thats beyond my control, to just take her easy for all those sinners. |
| United States | I learned that i have been a dude all my life. I have gotten shit for living this way yet never strayed from what i truly felt. Then one day i watched the film and was blown away. I felt as if there was others out there just like me which led me to find this website. so for me i have learned everything from this film and i dont feel like such a outcast anymore. so the only thing left for me to do is recieve a copy of this book so i hope you consider me and remember the dude abides |
| Denmark | I have learned to abide ..seriously!
The zen-like qualities of The Dude enabling him to stay calm and true to himself while facing nihilism, the loss of a friend and general abruption of his gentle way of life is inspiring for me to watch time and time again! The story and his hardship endured for me symbolizes my own passage through time and space. It lets me know that although someone pees on my rug, things will run their course, the stars will once again align and everything will turn out alright in the grand scheme of it all :-) |
| United States | Let’s face it, man, the world can be a very undude place. There are people willing to cut off your toes to serve their purposes. Of course I feel better letting go and, er, you know, letting The Dude. Sure, it might be hard to take ‘er easy, but it’s way harder not to, you know? |
| Canada | I learned its OK to be cool, chilled out, and drink white russians. That the Dude abides, the universe provides, and Walter Sobchek is not to be fucked with. Also that Kenny Roger’s ‘Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In)’ is probably the greatest song for a trip out ever. Mind if I burn a J? |
| Norway | I have learned a lot of stuff, man. The dude has not only taught me to take it easy if a gang tries to drown me in my toilet, if a pornographer drugs me or if my car gets stolen and trashed afterwards because of my friends fuckin’ around… He has inspired me to chill out, even more than I already do. When times are hard I can just take a J and say “fuck it, let’s skate”.
My ex girlfriend cheated on me twice, threatened to break up if I didn’t stop skating and a lot more… I could have been depressed and shit, but no, man. I grabbed a J while she yelled at me and also when I left that crazy bitch. I was high as a pancake while I told her to chill out and fuck off :D I’ve been taught relaxation and patience from the dude, how nice a white Russian in the morning can be and to not give a fuck about what people say or think about me. For I am a proud Dudeist. Thanks to all of you guys who took their time to read this I wrote while wondering if I even have a chance to win this contest. I’ll take a J while waiting for the answer, peace out bros. – The Koala |
| United States | I have gone through my life stessing myself out because I wasn’t successful enough or haven’t accomplished what my parents wished. As a result, it made me feel less of a person. but ten years ago I deiscovered The Big Lebowski and with it, The Dude. Now here was a guy who was in the same situation as I was. He hadn’t done much with his life, but he was okay with it. He let life roll off his back to a certain extent. He took his licks and kept on abiding. Here I was thinking, The Dude is content with his life. The Dude discovered what is needed in life to be happy: good friends, a fun hobby…and of course white russians. It was because of this movie I was able to accept my self and be content with how my life was. So I say thank you Dude for giving me my life back. |
| United States | That the answer isn’t always ‘down there’ but it may be worth another look. |
| United States | What have I learned? I’ve learned that life is full of gutter balls and I just got to take it easy and make the best of what life gives me in front of me |
| United States | I learned to live my life the way I see fit, not to really care what others around me think, and to just keep on living.
It’s not about being lazy. It’s about being unapologetically you. Because if you’re not you… then who are you? |
| United Kingdom | That you can not fuck with the Jesus. Neither do I. In fact, nobody can, although some people may not believe in this statement. Fucking nihilists. |
| Norway | I have learned alot from a Dude. Most important, to mellow out, think with cool head and no problem is unsolvable. The Dude just takes life so slow and with open mind… i found myself in him, helped me big time…
ye, that’s what i think P.S. I ain’t norwegian, just live in norway. Spreading the dude word here, they need it. |
| United States | How to live like the Dude. That sometimes life is gonna toss a marmot in your tub, have a kid steal and wreck your car, send some nihilists to cut off your johnson, etc. And you can’t be worried about that shit, man.
The idea that life is, at times, harsh and unforgiving and thus you just gotta roll with the punches is a simple message. But sometimes simply hearing or reading those words doesn’t root it deep enough to take hold. I can see aspects of myself in the Dude, so seeing the Dude experience the harsher side of life and retain his ability to take it easy in the end makes it easier to maintain that outlook. I still lose my head occasionally, but hey, so did the Dude. |
| United States | From watching The Big Lebowski I have learned several things…
The first is stop stressing. When there are alot of strands running through Ol’Duder’s Head, even though your best friend dies, and even when there’s a tournament coming up you can’t be worried about that shit, life goes on man. Second is that I don’t have to care about what other people think of me. I used to be a very high strung guy who always cared about what people thought of him. I was always wanted people to give me notes on how I was doing. If someone has a negative opinion on how I’m living my life….. yeah well, that’s like, their opinion man. Thirdly is to look the tough situations in the eye and say Fuck It. Life’s full of strikes and gutters, ups and downs, but we have to remember what the Dude says…. “Fuck It”. A few months after being ordained as a Dudeist Priest I started to wander off the path of The Dude and started letting my job get to me and letting things stress me out. It even came to the point to where I went home one day after work and broke down crying. My girlfriend got home and had no Idea what was going on. I told her about everything that was getting to me. She pulled me close and said “Fuck It”. And that’s when it actually hit me. The Dude’s words rand straight out of my girlfriend’s mouth. Fuck it. What a life changing concept. I don’t owe anybody anything. I don’t have to live up to a certain standard. I’m not here to impress anyone. When life beats me to the ground and spits on me, I now say Fuck It and keep going on my merry way. That’s about all I’m gonna ramble about for now. Thank you for taking the time to read my little bit of nonsense. Always Abiding, B{D> |
| United States | Sometimes,when life gets crazy, you just have to say f#ck it and go bowling. |
| United States | What I’ve learned from The Big Lebowski is that life has a lot of ins & outs and fuck it the old man told me to talk any rug in the house. |
| United States | I learned that sometimes it’s better to be happy being kind of lazy and yourself, rather than striving to be more. It’s alright to lie around without much of a goal besides hanging with your friends and surviving somehow. That to be someone desperate for material wealth isn’t necessarily the best way to achieve happiness for someone. |
| United States | Upon first watch, and often even before viewing the film, many people cast The Big Lebowski off as a typical “stoner movie.” However, the film is actually full of deeper philosophical ideas and meaning—lots of ins, outs, and what have yous. From pacifism to militarism, from feminism to the Reaganite capitalist, The Dude brings a lot of new shit to light, in a more complex way: often it is covert, but it is always interesting, and obviously humorous. However, perhaps the most important lesson is essentially the framework for the entire movie: “Just take it easy, man.” In an age riddled with technology, individualism, uptight capitalists (i.e. The Big Lebowski), real reactionaries, and a myriad of societal expectations, The Dude truly is the guy for our time and place; he taught me that sometimes, you just need to take it easy, man.
I still vividly remember my first Dudeist epiphany that served as the proverbial rug that really tied my own mental room together. I was a full time graduate student, working forty hours a week, and constantly adhering to a regularly packed schedule or routine. To use the parlance of our times, I had to feed the monkey. Anyway, I was stressed out big time about a 50 page paper I had to finish, in the midst of a huge work crisis, and a pretty busy schedule. Then randomly, a vision of Walter Sobchack popped into my head saying, “Fuck it Dude, let’s go bowling.” You see, my thinking had become very uptight. I was so worried about constantly perfecting my every action that I was too busy to enjoy the little things. Shit, too busy to enjoy anything, for that matter. I immediately stopped what I was doing, went home, and watched The Big Lebowski. I had always been a fan of the movie and enjoyed it, but I never took the time to actually analyze the movie or think critically about how it could truly be a life lesson. That same day, I made a conscious decision to become more Dudely in everything I did, and it made a huge difference. Perhaps the biggest advantage is actually enjoying life. Everyday life, from trivial things to huge moments, can be a natural, zesty enterprise—if you let it. When one’s thinking becomes too uptight—as mine had—you miss the joy in everything, and essentially damn yourself to a life of normalcy, boredom, and adhering to societal expectations, which can be a real bummer, man. The Big Lebowski taught me that it’s ok—nay, important—to occasionally say “fuck it.” For that is when you find true happiness, stop being so overwhelmed with stress, and learn how to express yourself. I now enjoy shamelessly wearing my slippers to the grocery store and wearing odd clothes that only appeal to me. Sure, other people might call those things “weird,” but that’s just, like, their opinion, man. I’m still a little Lebowski achiever with a steady job, goals, ambitions, and what have you. But I’ve learned to “just take it easy, man,” which is the most important idea one can take away from The Big Lebowski. |
| United States | I’ve learned to brush off people’s opinions, man. |
| United States | If someone enters your private residence swinging a bat, remain calm and compliment their marmot. |
| United States | I learned that A White Russian is my favorite drink! |
| United States | The Big Lebowski has taught me how to look at the big picture. It’s not how much money you have or don’t have. It’s not about the random toes in the mail or Vietnam. It is about bowling the perfect game, or sharing a laugh with you friends. It’s about taking one more look down the toilet bowl for that owed money. It’s about how one simple piece can tie a whole room together. It’s about being true to your own nature. Yes my friends…It is truly all about learning how to abide. We all need to have an over the top Walter, and an at peace Donny in our lives. That and a few Caucasians is the key to being the Dude. Of course having a whacked out landlord doesn’t hurt. Oh, and one more thing. if you are going to own an expensive car, don’t ever f**k anyone up the a**. |
| Denmark | The Big Lebowski taught me to take it easy, above all. Am I being chased by nihilists, is my rug stolen or am I simply having a hard time feeding the monkey, I recall the message of his dudeness, “just take it easy, man.” |
| United States | That my problems are solved by drinking a Caucasian |
| United States | At the risk of sounding very un-dude, I learned nothing from The Big Lebowski. Rather, I unlearned many of the social prescriptions for our behavior that have a way of making us uptight and prevent us from takin’ er easy. You may think I’m out of my element, here, but that’s just like your opinion, man. |
| United States | I’ve learned that no matter what happeneds-any event, any situations,ever- just forget about. Life will go on with or without you so might as well keep up. |
| United States | I’ve learned what happens when you f*ck a stranger in the a$$! And my name is Larry. |
| Sweden | Simply to not take things too seriously. |
| United States | The worries of a man can bind him, drag him down, and kill him. This sentence alone was me at one time, until I watched a Cohen brothers film called the big lebowski. My world suddenly flipped upside down. Seeing the character known as the dude take every situation that came up with such calmness and levelheaded ness made me rethink my anxiety filled life. Instead worrying about money bills and finances. I’m enjoying family a white Russian or two, and a new item to tie a room together. At times I’d be lying if I said I did not become startled from a surprise problem that shows up in my life. Such as a flat tire, car trouble, or a house mishap. When this happens I think of the perfect answer….. “fuck it” my answer for everything. Not because its easy but because it makes sense we only have one life and I’m not gonna waste it on problems that won’t matter. To those problems I say fuck it!. I have one life to live and want to live it cool calm and relaxed just as “the dude” would. More family more league games and more white Russians. |
| Canada | How even modern, low-brow humourous writing has strong parallels with some truly classic works. Hamlet anyone? |
| United States | I’ve learned to try to not take stuff so seriously, and The Dude has inspired in me deeper interests in Eastern practices, religions, and philosophies (and bowling), moving me to study such in academia as well as in my free time. Films like this one help give me a sense of ease and comfort, that people and man-made things aren’t quite so strong and worth my anxiety as they so easily seem to a student today. Sometimes it’s remarkable how much things aren’t as scary or important as we trick ourselves and others into believing. I’d rather welcome the strikes as well as the gutters and just enjoy how the game rolls. I truly appreciate this flick and what it’s taught me, which has helped me to just take it easy, man. |
| United States | you must create your own reality, and not live in someone else’s…and…just take it easy. |
| United States | Humour and Wisdom go hand in hand in to the ignorant darkness. |
| Argentina | I learned that if a Chinaman, sorry, asian american, peed on my rug, that rug is ruined. |
| United States | That people still use objects as woman |
| United States | The best thing I’ve carried with me and applied to my life is summed up by the statement “that rug really tied the room together.” No matter how big or little the situation may be,there will always be one unique aspect that ties problem and solution together. Oddly,sometimes your own problem becomes a solution to someone else’s and vice-versa. |
| Slovenia | To take it easy and abide. It showed me a new path in life I never knew existed. A real brainstorm man.
Also that my rug is a sacred thing. |
| United Kingdom | Shit happens! |
| United States | There is no greater peace and happiness to be found than being truly in your element. Sam (the stranger) describes this early on, sometimes there’s a man…just fits right in there. It’s like that period of time when your Birkenstocks are way more than broken in, you can’t tell where your foot ends and they begin, when you are the dude the world feels like that.
Neither Bunny nor her husband and certainly not Brandt would let themselves be themselves and yet by every measure each was far more ‘successful’ than the dude. Maude however starting from a warped sense of reality did her level best to get back down to self but she was at a great disadvantage to the dude who probably started out not so bad and just managed to not fuck that up. That, and that a rug really can pull a room together, man. |
| United States | Abide. |
| United States | New shit is always coming to light, man, so you always need to to keep your mind limber by adhering to a strict drug regimen and white russians. |
| United States | I found out that White Russian’s, In-N-Out Burger, and “Takin’ it easy, man” are great ways to live by! |
| Austria | The most important thing i’ve learned from T B L is to abide!
if the dude abides all of us do! another thing i’ve learned is that a bathrobe paired with slippers and sunglasses is DAMN SEXY :) there are so much things i’ve learned from this masterpiece so it’s impossible to mention all of them, one more thing maybe… this isn’t NAM! so keep taking it easy dudes! |
| Switzerland | I have learned to be self-sufficient and to content oneself with what i have .. And most important to enjoy the present day and keep my brain and my mind clean .
After a day worked in social it’s very difficult to let the brain empty . Practice yoga and autosuggestion in myself make me feel good and happy … So i recommended to everybody these practical “arts” . So Thank you very much to ask this question :) And best greeting from my little Switzerland Cya! Sylvain C |
| United States | What have I learned? That I can take comfort, not only in knowing that someone like the dude is out there, abiding, but there are men, good men, who otherwise might be face down in the muck in ‘nam, who’d rather be bowling. Men that want to abide, but will not let this aggression stand. For that I take great comfort and take a very peaceful nap. |
| United States | I have learned that if you live like The Dude, bad things are likely to come your way. On the other end, if you live like The Dude your life will be stress free. Don’t worry about the bad things, man. Karma is a universal law that will always Abide by The Dude. Besides, worrying is so un-Dude. |
| United States | I have learned that a good philosophy is something to hide behind. The Dude is cited as having two different answers for everything: “Just take it easy” (by Walter) and “Fuck it,” (by Jeffery Lebowski, the millionaire). Yes yes, with the spin of attitude and circumstance, these answers offer a similar approach to life’s what-have-you. In the climactic scene of the film’s money/kidnapping plot, we see the “take it easy” guy (Walter, ironically) toss the “fuck it” guy (the millionaire) out of his throne of comfort and…ah, fuck it, I’ve done thought it enough. |
| United States | I have learned how to tie a room together using just a rug, man. I know not to fuck with the jesus, or jesus gonna fuck you in the ass. I know now to back up my creedence on extra cassettes. I am aware of what happens when you find a stranger in the Alps, Larry. Most of all, I have learned the importance of adhering to a strict, uh, drug regimen to keep my mind, uh, you know, limber, man. |
| United States | stuff stops being so important when you start to take er’ easy. |
| United States | Sometimes you eat the bear and sometimes the bear eats you. And even though times are tough I probably shouldn’t curse so much. Eh, fuck it. Lets go bowling. |
| United States | If I had to sum it up, its probably best said as, “Take ‘er easy”.
The older I get, the more I realize how crazy this world is. People’s thinking has so uptight, chasing things that don’t really matter. Everyone is seeking meaning. I don’t know anything about meaning, but if it IS really all about something, it’ll have to be discovered by a wiser feller than myself. They can do their thing, I’ll do mine. As far as I’m concerned, life doesn’t have to be any harder than we choose to make it. We’re here for a short time. The best way to spend it is with a few friends. Have a few burgers, few beers, few laughs. The Dude sets a great example of being a true, good friend. Take care of each other and take ‘er easy. |
| United States | How to make a primo caucasian. |
| United States | my lessons from watching the big lebowski over 100 times, is that when all else fails, if you just let the world do what it wants you will be ok, medicate, meditate & just say fuck it lets go bowling. by abiding dude shows us it is all ok no matter how deep you get into it, just do a jay & let it go, you cant worry about the small stuff (or even the big stuff), as long as you pay your rent by the tenth and have good friends.
abiding is a lifestyle. |
| United States | I have learned that you need to just take it easy, man. Life’s gunna shit on you whether you like it or not, but no matter what, things have got a way of workin’ themselves out in the end. Life isn’t always gunna be full of J’s and caucasians, but there’s a yin and there’s a yang, man. And the universe is all about balance, so we’ll all have our fair shares of caucasians as well as our fair shares of pee stains on our rugs (metaphorically as well as for the unfortunate souls who really have ended up with pee stains on their rugs). In the end, you just gotta figure out what really means the most to you and how far yer willin’ to go to make that happen in your life. Sometimes shit ain’t worth gettin’ yer Johnson cut off…hell, most of the time it ain’t. Aside from my blathering and what-have-you, I can say that The Big Lebowski has transformed me as a human being probably more than any piece of art ever has. It makes you just wanna say “Fuck it, dude,” to all the bullshit in life that, in the end, doesn’t even matter, and just enjoy yourself in the current moment and most of all…just try your hardest not to be a dick…because honestly….we don’t know shit, Lebowski. Am I wrong?… Oh, and I’ve also learned that the ringer cannot look empty, man. |
| Austria | the big lebowski showed me how to abide. not kidding. i used to take things way too serious, nowadays i just think: what would the dude do ?
im sure this is gonna sound pathetic but .. the big lebowski made my life better. thank u =) |
| United States | That everything is just like your opinion, man. |
| Canada | Not only have I been entertained by the movie since first watching it, but I’ve found that at times during my life when I’m stressed, frustrated, or just burnt-out, I hear a voice that chastises me, “You’re being very un-Dude.” Realizing this, I rethink what I’m doing, and just take it easy, man. Often it’ll put me in more of a Dude mindset, and the problem works itself out. While the Dude isn’t always calm and collected during his adventures (in fact, he can get downright manic), he always takes time to re-center himself, be it with tai-chi, a soothing bath, or doing a J and drinking White Russians. And that is a lesson worth learning. |
| United States | Life is what you make of it. |
| United States | I’ve learned how to abide and chill out, when everyone seems to be getting on my case,
I just want to chill out and smell the roses. |
| United States | There are, uh, a lot of really deep, and uh, complex messages to take here. But really it, uh, doesn’t matter, man, if uh, your dying face down in the muck or getting laid by rich chicks. In the end life just that way, man, and uh, most of the time it’s just better to sit back spark a j and, uh… uh… just remember it’s all just strikes and gutter balls, ups and downs. So don’t take it too seriously. |
| Canada | 1. The most obnoxious person in your group (Walter) may also be the only who’s right about everything.
2. Just because a person looks and acts rich, doesn’t mean that they are (Mr. Lebowski living off his wife’s money). 3. You’re not always what people make you believe (Maude wants to bed The Dude because she thinks he’s perfect). 4. Nobody fucks with The Jesus. And, last (and definitely not the least).. 5. Take it easy, man… |
| United Kingdom | To be one with the world. |
| United States | From The Big Lebowski I have learned not to take life too seriously. I have learned not to be too harsh on other people, not knowing their story and all. I have learned not to let the poison people in my life spoil my peace. I have learned that a day of bowling, a caucasian, an oat soda or a J can turn any day around. I have learned to relax and enjoy what’s around me. In all, I have become a more peaceful, less uptight, less angry, less depressed person. Most importantly, I have learned that a rug really can tie a room together and my apartment thanks The Dude for that. |
| United States | Dude!!…What? |
| United States | I have learned:
1. Your not taking a dog bowling unless you buy it shoes 2. You should listen to all the Donnies of the world 3. Dirty underwear can get you killed 4. Just relax… |
| United States | The Big Lebowski… Where do I start?
There are so many things that are positive that the Big Lebowski can teach anyone, but being only a child the first time I saw it, I learned one very important thing: the word fuck. It wasn’t until about 7 years later when I was 18 that I would rediscover this gem of a movie, though my obsession never faded, nor did my use of the word fuck. I thought about censoring this, then I realized what website I was on. Thanks guys. |
| United States | It is no problem to get a toe by 3 o’clock.
White Russians make everything better. The right rug really ties a room together. If you’re feeling a little stressed, just chill out, man. Never trust a Chinaman. .. and above all else, if you don’t know what to do with your day, go bowling. |
| United States | To abide and take it easy for all the sinners out there.
As a youth minister, these two lessons have kept me sane while teaching youth the same lessons, sometimes approaching things as The Dude by considering the path of least resistance; sometimes as Walter by standing my ground and insisting that, unlike Nam, there are rules that need to be followed; and sometimes even as The Stranger, dispensing wisdom and offering support when needed. My mind stays limber by substituting more alcohol for the drugs and keeping the Creedence in the tape deck. All this is what keeps me going and keeps the facists at bay. |
| United States | I’ve learned from watching the Big Lebowski that it is natural for us, in the parlance of our times, to become uptight and act like fucking assholes. But we have to stop and take it easy, we can’t always worry about all that shit, because life goes on. That’s what occurred to me, man. We have to take it easy and spread the Dudeliness or we’ll die face down in the muck of negativity, which we can easily bring into the tournament. |
| United States | Don’t worry, be happy. |
| United States | To mellow out, to not get caught up in drama. Avoid identity mix ups, to not go over the line or fuck a friend in the ass… |
| United States | Whar nomebody’s blowing me a bunch of crap I remember to keep my cool. I reply ” That’s your opinion man.” It really pisses them off! |
| United States | I’ve learned to b r e a t h e… |
| United States | I have learned fro The Big Lebowski that life is really simple if you look at it the right way and that at times you can get mixed up in sticky situations but you must abide and work your way through it. Since my last name is Drewes I have taking the motto “The Drewes Abides” and use it very often because it truly is words to live by. |
| United States | Abiding and takin’er easy |
| United Kingdom | to take it easy man |
| Ireland | Minimalism’s cool. |
| Australia | I’ve learned that humankind is paranoid and selfish. We should just slow down, throw away our greed and selfishness and focus on simpler emotions….Like love. |
| United States | Believe in something… Whether it’s taking life as it comes, with a drink in one hand and a bowling ball in the other, or even trying to twist the world to your design as a hate-mongering fascist… Nihilism is no way to live. |
| United States | How to make a great Caucasion! |
| Greece | That in relation to nihilism, ethno-socialism at least had some ethos! |
| Spain | some friends can cause you more problems than all af your enemys together |
