From what I recall he learned how much worse the town is without him, so he grew an appreciation for himself and his contributions to society. And they pay him back in the end. I don't remember anything about him missing his warm bed frankly.

by Rachellestreich 1 hour ago

You're conveniently ignoring the fact that Bedford Falls turns into an utter hellhole without George Bailey in it, which is something he would have no way of knowing on his own without going through that simulation. He gets to see how far-reaching his acts of goodness were on everyone around him. That was and still is an incredibly powerful message.

by Anonymous 1 hour ago

I would say it's pretty universal for someone experiencing crushing debt to need a lesson on the wealth of their life and relationships.

by Anonymous 47 minutes ago

It's not just that George realizes the value in what he has, but also that he sees he's had a meaningful and positive impact on those around him. The movie makes the case that no life is wasted or insignificant if it's lived with integrity. George Bailey may not be a bigshot world traveler like he dreamed, but he's made his small corner of the world better by consistently trying to do right by others.

by Ill_Progress 39 minutes ago

No, I am tired of remakes.

by Little-Shirt-7063 21 minutes ago