As Christmas approaches in 1985 Ireland, Small Things Like These unfolds as a haunting, beautifully restrained drama about one man’s stand against the silent complicity of his community. Directed by Tim Mielants and starring Cillian Murphy as Bill Furlong, the film adapts Claire Keegan’s acclaimed novella into a parable of conscience and courage. Bill, a coal merchant and devoted father, stumbles upon a shattering secret at the local convent—forcing him to choose between the comfort of silence and the perilous path of integrity. For creative leaders, Bill’s journey is a profound reminder: the story you choose to live is the legend you leave behind.
Plot Summary: Bill Furlong’s Moral Awakening
Bill Furlong is a hard-working coal merchant, shaped by a childhood marked by poverty and the kindness of strangers. As he prepares for Christmas with his wife and five daughters, Bill discovers a teenage girl, Sarah, locked in a freezing coal shed at the local convent—a place notorious for housing unwed mothers under the control of powerful nuns. Pressured by the Mother Superior and warned by the townsfolk to keep silent, Bill faces a wrenching dilemma: protect his family’s standing or act on his conscience. In a quiet act of rebellion, he chooses to rescue Sarah, bringing her into the warmth of his home in full view of a judgmental town. The film closes with a dedication to the real-life victims of Ireland’s Magdalene laundries, underscoring the cost—and necessity—of speaking out.
The Hero’s Journey and Archetypes in Small Things Like These
| Hero’s Journey Stage | Bill’s Story | Reflection for Creative Leaders | Archetype(s) at Play |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary World | Coal merchant, family man, respected but reserved | Where are you quietly carrying burdens? | The Everyman, The Caregiver |
| Call to Adventure | Discovers Sarah in the coal shed | What injustice or need calls you to act? | The Innocent, The Seeker |
| Refusal of the Call | Fears social and economic consequences | What risks make you hesitate to speak your truth? | The Orphan, The Ruler |
| Meeting the Mentor | Memories of his mother’s kindness guide him | Who or what reminds you of your values? | The Sage, The Caregiver |
| Crossing the Threshold | Returns to the convent to help Sarah | When have you stepped beyond your comfort zone? | The Hero, The Explorer |
| Tests, Allies, Enemies | Faces Sister Mary, townsfolk, and his own doubts | Who challenges your integrity? Who supports you? | The Shadow, The Ally, The Rebel |
| Approach to the Inmost Cave | Walks Sarah past the watching town | What public risks are you willing to take? | The Warrior, The Martyr |
| Ordeal | Faces family’s shock and social ostracism | What price are you willing to pay for your values? | The Outlaw, The Hero |
| Reward (Seizing the Sword) | Saves Sarah, reclaims his moral agency | What have you gained from acting with integrity? | The Creator, The Sage |
| The Road Back | Returns home, family’s future uncertain | How do you face the consequences of your choices? | The Caregiver, The Ruler |
| Resurrection | Welcomes Sarah, finds peace in his decision | How do you integrate courage into your leadership? | The Hero, The Sage |
| Return with the Elixir | Offers safety and hope to Sarah | What legacy will your story leave behind? | The Creator, The Caregiver |
Reflections for Creative Leaders: Your Own Journey
- Where are you quietly carrying burdens that no one sees?
- What injustice or need is calling you to act, even if it’s inconvenient or risky?
- Who or what reminds you of your deepest values when you’re tempted to stay silent?
- What price are you willing to pay to live your truth and lead with integrity?
- How do you want your story—and your legacy—to be remembered?
Conclusion: The Power of Small Acts
Small Things Like These is a meditation on the courage required to do what is right, not what is easy. Bill Furlong’s journey is a testament to the power of small, quiet acts of heroism—reminding us that the stories we choose to live shape not just our own lives, but the world around us. As creative leaders, the invitation is clear: you are the storyteller of your own legend. Will you choose comfort, or will you choose courage?
Questions to Take Away After Seeing the Movie
- What “small thing” could you do this week that would make a difference in your community or workplace?
- When have you faced a moment where doing the right thing came at a personal cost?
- How do you respond to pressure from authority or tradition when it conflicts with your values?
- What story are you telling yourself about your own power to change things?
- How can you support others who are taking courageous steps in your organization or circle?
Story Coaching Offer by Peter de Kuster
Are you ready to become the hero of your own story? My story coaching, inspired by the Hero’s Journey, is designed for:
- Creative professionals, leaders, and entrepreneurs seeking clarity and courage
- Anyone at a crossroads, ready to rewrite their narrative
- Leaders who want to inspire change and lead with authenticity
Benefits of Story Coaching:
- Discover your unique leadership archetype and narrative
- Transform challenges into opportunities for growth
- Gain practical tools to inspire and motivate others
- Build resilience and self-awareness through your personal legend
Special Offer:
1-on-1 Career Story Coaching session (2 hours) for €295 (excl. VAT)
Includes a personal hero’s journey map and actionable insights for your leadership path.
Ready to create your own legend?
Contact Peter de Kuster at peter@wearesomeone.nl and start your journey today.
“The story you live is the story you leave. Make yours a legend.”
The Power of Your Story 