Small Things Like These

In the ending of Small Things Like These, Bill Furlong makes a quiet but powerful choice. After witnessing the mistreatment of Sarah, a young woman at the convent who has been abandoned and is suffering due to the brutal conditions there, Bill’s internal struggle reaches a breaking point. Though he initially hesitates, influenced by the church’s authority and fear of repercussions, he is haunted by his childhood memories and the pain he witnessed in his own mother’s life. These reflections remind him of the harsh realities faced by women like Sarah, and they ignite a moral resolve within him.

In a decisive act of kindness and justice, Bill chooses to intervene. He secretly helps Sarah escape from the convent and brings her to his home, where she can find safety and compassion. This act of defiance is particularly meaningful because it comes despite the risk of retribution from the powerful church authorities and the social condemnation that could follow. Bill’s decision symbolizes a quiet rebellion against injustice and an acknowledgment of the small yet significant things—like helping a woman in need—that can inspire true change. It reflects his journey from a reserved man haunted by his past to someone willing to stand up for what’s right, despite the dangers.

By saving Sarah, Bill essentially rewrites her fate and finally addresses the pain he couldn’t alleviate in his own childhood, bringing a small but impactful act of humanity into a world marred by cruelty and silence. The film closes with a subtle yet hopeful note, illustrating that even the smallest acts of kindness can carry profound moral weight, hinting at the possibility of healing and change in a broken society.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 09:03