A shy fifteen-year-old girl named Susie began writing her story. She was an observer of the social dynamics of the students in her high school. Teachers, as they do, guided and encouraged her in her writing. The story grew stronger and worthy of a try to turn it into a real book. She was cautioned that the book would sell better if she disguised her sex, so she used her initials, S.E. Hinton. She graduated from Will Rogers High School, which is just down the street from our church, in 1966. When her book was published that year, it became a bestseller and has remained on the bestseller list these sixty years. She called it The Outsiders. Tulsans know of the time movie director Francis Ford Coppola came to town with some young mostly unknown actors to play the students from Will Rogers High. He filmed Hinton’s second novel, Rumble Fish, while he was in Tulsa at the same time.
“Can you see the sunset from the South side real good?”
“Yeah, real good.”
“You can see it from the North side too.”
Ponyboy Curtis and Cherrie Valence
Here are a few lessons I have learned about outsiders. Outsiders always recognize the insiders. Outsiders are invisible to insiders. Insiders are suspicious of most outsiders. All of us know what it feels like to be an outsider trying to fit it. Outsiders, sometimes known as visitors or even strangers, always look to see if there is someone like themselves in the room. The outsider seeks understanding and kindness. The outsider is looking for a trusted friend and the security of belonging. Some outsiders may even be a messenger from God. (Hebrews 13:2)
Maybe the two worlds we lived in weren’t so different.
We saw the same sunset.
Keep healthy. Pray mightily. Enjoy your life today. Befriend the outsider. And let’s experience the love and power of God together.
Note: A 60th Anniversary Celebration of the book is being held at Tulsa’s Will Rogers High School, on Saturday, November 7, beginning at 10 a.m., which includes an extended version of the movie. For more information go to the website: willrogersfoundation.net
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