SirPatrick's Xanga

Opportunities

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 09:34:36 GMT

Benjamin Button: Our lives are defined by opportunities, even the ones we miss.

~quote from The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (PG-13)

I just re-watched this film this past weekend, its obvious why there were so many award nominations for this movie. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a fantastic story and highly entertaining. There are shares of very odd moments, as you can imagine, but all in all it’s quite the adventure following the backwards life of Benjamin Button. One of the film’s best qualities is finishing what it starts… there are several little stories within the story and to see them all come full circle is a breath of fresh air. If you have not yet seen it, it is well worth the rental fee from your local Blockbuster, RedBox, Movie Gallery... or NetFlix if that’s what you fancy.

I thoroughly enjoyed the writing for this movie; it’s the little details that make this film shine. One of the blurbs of Benjamin’s narration spoke of the opportunities we encounter in life and how our lives are shaped by what we do with them… or in some cases, don’t do. The important piece that jumped out to me is the fact that our lives are not only shaped by the opportunities we choose to act upon, but also by the ones we choose to pass by. These opportunities missed often affect our lives equally as great as those met head-on, the thing with missed ones… we never really know.

By no means do I think we should grab every opportunity by the horns, but I think we should attempt to exercise more wisdom when choosing which moments to seize. Often we let opportunities pass by without a thought even given to them. Let this be received as a challenge to engage more in the things around you; the moments… the opportunities that you normally would simply let pass by. At least grab hold of them for a moment so that you can better evaluate, with wisdom, what you should do. Often it’s too difficult to know before you take that first step if the opportunity is going to become good or bad… ask for wisdom.^(a)

Make no mistake, our history is written by the opportunities we seise along with the ones we don't, but it is God who defines who we truly are.^{(b, c, d)}

a: James 1:5; b: John 3:16; c: Romans 10:9-10; d: 2 Corinthians 5:17

(thought history)

Size Matters?

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 10:18:21 GMT

Adrian Veidt: It doesn't take a genius to see the world has problems.
Edward Blake: No, but it takes a room full of morons to think they're small enough for them to handle.

~dialogue from Watchmen (R)

I really thought I would like Watchmen. I'm not sure if it was that it turned out to be something I didn't expect, but it was just "OK" for me. Decent visuals and a fairly interesting storyline... perhaps had I read the comics I would have enjoyed it more. I certainly wouldn't suggest for anyone to run out and see it, but if you're planning to... brace yourself for an over abundance of blue male nudity.

Genius vs. moron; quite the spectrum. Adrian Veidt is the genius and Edward Blake enjoys taking name-calling the shot @ Mr Veidt. In the context of this dialogue, I couldn’t agree more with the sentiments shared. Problems; whether they infect the whole of the world, or if they are narrowed down to our own lives… it’s wise to realize they are not within our grasp to handle. Certainly there are small enough problems in our own lives where we can get by on our own accord, but it does not mean its best. As far as the measurement of the size of the problem, it is a matter of perspective.

By no means am I a genius, nor have I considered myself a moron… well maybe sometimes; however, when it comes to problems (especially my own) I tend to lean more towards the realm of moronic… I have a feeling I’m not the only one. When it comes to world size problems, I don’t really believe that I could handle them on my own. But, when it comes to my own personal problems, no matter how big or small they may be, I tend to take the path of a moron and believe I can handle them on my own. Certainly there are problems small enough that I make due with my resolutions, but there are other cases where my solutions are utter disasters and end up causing far more harm than good. Sadly, even after years of experiencing failure, I find myself fitting the moronic mold… not always, but many times.

For God no problem is too big, no problem too small. The trick here is to learn to lean on Him rather than ourselves. For those of us who have accepted the free salvation gift of Christ, the way has been made for reliance on God… for those who have not, the outlook is bleak. Through Jesus Christ we have been joined with Him.^(a) He is available, call to Him and He will answer.^{(b, c, d)} Seek Him with all your heart and you will find your answers. ^{(e, f, g)}. God is always available, always listening and no problem is too large for Him!^(h)

a: Matthew 11:30, b: Proverbs 15:29, c: James 5:16-18, d: Philippians 4:6-7, e: Proverbs 3:5-6, f: Jeremiah 29:13, g: Proverbs 8:17, h: Luke 1:37

(thought history)

Simply...

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 11:08:55 GMT

Missing, lost, absent, away, departed, gone, lacking, off, distant, out... so many labels, yet they all apply. Sadly, this has been the reality. I really miss writing here... it was very fulfilling. I need to get back to this. Now, the only question that remains is which movie of the hundreds I've seen since my last posting do I pick? :)

How about this... here's a question: do you even bother taking the time to see "The Hangover"?

Rather Die

Sat, 21 Feb 2009 13:01:17 GMT

Isabella Swan: I'd rather die than to stay away from you.

~quote from Twilight (PG-13)

I'm not much of a reader, but even I had heard about the craze Twilight has swept over those who love to read... especially those of the teenage variety ;) With all the buzz, my interest and curiosity was heightened and while we were on a family trip to Mexico this past Christmas we took time out of an afternoon to take in this film. Overall it was fairly interesting. {slight spoiler} I'm not sure why, but so many people (me included) are always drawn to the whole "vampire" thing. It just always makes for an intriguing story I guess. It seems as though every movie maker puts their own little spin on it whether it's garlic and mirrors, or sunlight and shadow there's a slight twist... but yet the same. Anyway, this movie had it's own little twists on the life of a vampire which is actually what makes this film interesting. Personally I wouldn't shout of the mountaintops to run to see the movie or anything, but I certainly wasn't disappointed. It was pretty good.

Bella was SO drawn to Edward, it's as if she was under some enchanting spell. There was just something so interesting about him and she found herself completely devoured by his charm, she just couldn't stay away from him. Even when she understood the risks of being with him, she couldn't stay away. This got me thinking about God and how He couldn't stay away from us, how He couldn't allow us to continue to wander in darkness far from Him. Instead He chose death rather than staying away.^(a) God in the flesh, Jesus, came to the earth to live as one of us.^(b) He ended up making a choice to accept death and bridge the gap between His Father and mankind.^(c) This great love^{(d, e, f)} was the proof that God couldn't stay away; He would rather die.

Such a huge sacrifice... so much to give up, yet our part seems so little in comparison. All He asks is for us to turn from our selfish ways and trust and follow Him.^(g) He has made the way to no longer stay away, now the choice is ours. If you've never made your choice, I can't stress enough that you should NOT take this lightly. This choice will forever change your life. Don't put this off; choose today!^(h)

God sent His Son, who would rather die to bridge the gap back to the Father than to leave the void between us and Him. Jesus decided he would rather die than to stay away from you. What will you decide?

a: John 3:16-17, b: Matthew 1:22-23, c: Romans 5:8, d: Psalm 57:10, e: Lamentations 3:22-23, f: John 15:13, g: Romans 10:9-10, h: Deuteronomy 30:19

(thought history)

Compassion

Sun, 18 Jan 2009 13:09:56 GMT

Father Flynn: Where is your compassion?
Sister Aloysius: Nowhere you can get at it.

~dialogue from Doubt (PG-13)

When it comes to acting performances, Meryl Streep & Philip Seymour Hoffman deliver in Doubt. It certainly doesn't hurt that these are two of my favorite actors. In this film they both put forth the type of performance which reminds me why I enjoy their talents so much. Doubt is powerful and worthy of all the awards it is being nominated for. If you enjoy stellar acting, then I highly recommend you see Doubt.

Being as this film is in a religious setting, there are plenty of quotes to pick out and tear apart. I chose this dialogue because I think it strikes a chord in our society today. Certainly we all have some level of compassion within us, but far too often that compassion is buried deep within us, never to be seen by the outside world and certainly not towards someone in need. This must change for all of us, but especially for those of us who choose to call ourselves Christians. If we say we follow Christ, compassion must be at the forefront^(a) of our lives... if not, we are dishonoring the name that which we bear.

Our compassion should be obvious to those around us, not hidden under a bushel basket. I don't think this really spoils the film as the previews even show this, but it's obvious the question Father Flynn asks is directed right at the heart of what I'm talking about here. In Sister Aloysius' case, she chose to throw compassion to the wind, along with the facts, and ruthlessly went after Father Flynn. Certainly she had her suspicions, but then... well, there were doubts... thus the film's name. Anyway, I did not want to get to writing about her intentions, I am highlighting the fact that she admits her compassion is there, she just has chosen to keep it from Father Flynn.

You have compassion, don't keep it hidden... show it to others.^(b,c)

a: Mark 1:41, b: Ephesians 4:32, c: Colossians 3:12

(thought history)

Pure Love

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 13:35:13 GMT

Pete: Do you ever wonder how somebody could even like you? The biggest problem in our marriage is that she wants me around. And I can't even accept that? I don't think I can accept pure love.

~quote from Knocked Up (R)

Knocked Up, certainly not for those little ears and eyes; however, there are actually some solid lessons learned here. By no means is this an all-time great film, must see or anything like that... but it's a fair film with an entertaining and interesting story line and several laughs thrown in along the way.

When it comes to the quote, this one shoots right to the heart of a huge issue... accepting love. There are so many reasons to reject love, most often because of previous wounding causing lack of trust to the point where we close our hearts off to the most wonderful thing we can experience in life. I'm sure some of it is that all of us, even if it's just a touch, are a bit cynical... we just have a hard time believing that anyone could truly love us, I mean really love... really, is that possible? The questions summersault through our minds like a circus plane and we drive ourselves to the point of madness. We question the motives of the other, the value of ourselves; both getting blown so much out of proportion, we wouldn't even recognize these sentiments in another light.

The classic unconditional love which many know about, and at the same time many have never heard... the pure love of Christ. So many people mentally rip themselves to the point where they believe it's impossible for a perfect God to truly love them. It starts with very simple belief, the bible states that God so loved the world that He gave His only Son.^(a) He LOVED the WORLD, so if you happen to be in this world, the statement is clear, God loves YOU! His love is pure and untainted. That's the beginning, now I urge you to trust in the Lord.^(b) Accept His gift of love, allow His love to penetrate your heart to the point of healing and wholeness. Do not fear, let down your guard and let His perfect love cast out all fear.^(c) Confess, trust & believe.^(d)

a: John 3:16-17, b: Proverbs 3:5, c: 1 John 4:18, d: Romans 10:9-10

(thought history)

Already Dead

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 11:20:21 GMT

Harold Crick: I may already be dead, just not typed.

~quote from Stranger Than Fiction (PG-13)

This was a movie I was pleasantly pleased with. Stranger Than Fiction is clever and easily worth a rental if you have not yet seen it. I wish Will Ferrel did more like this and less films like Semi-Pro or Talladega Nights. Emma Thompson & Dennis Hoffman also turn in solid performances; however, the story line alone is enough intrigue to spark you're interest.

Harold Crick is convinced that he's just living a story in which someone else is in control "writing" his outcome. When he learns he is slated to die soon, he goes into panic mode; grasping for truth and some kind of explanation that would give him some control back. Nearing his whit's end, he utters the thought, "I may already be dead, just not typed". Without a doubt we are talking about fiction here, but this got me thinking about the dead-ness I remember being in before I came to terms with my need for Jesus and accepted Him.

Sure, I was walking the earth, living the "normal" life everyone leads. I was going to school, working, doing my best to take care of a young dis-jointed family. I was pretty pleased with myself, I thought I was leading a "good" life. Much like Harold Crick going about his routine until some reality slapped him in the face, I was shaken up and realized I wasn't standing on as firm of ground as I believed. It was then that I realized I was living on the shifting sands^(a) of my own works, my own pride, my own agenda... and that didn't stand very long when a storm of life came. I crashed, saw that I was in deep need of a Savior^(b) and accepted to follow my Lord from that day on. The cool part is I had the opportunity to weather an eerily similar life storm, this time with Jesus as my foundation.^(c) It is truly amazing how much different things were that time... certainly I was shaken, but there was no crash... I was held up and held firm by the strong hands of God.^(d)

How many people know that they are already dead? Those who have yet to accept the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ are already spiritually dead, they just might not know it yet.^(e) These spiritual zombies lead lives without true purpose and without eternal hope^(f), shifting around on foundations of sand. Only through knowledge, coupled with a relationship with Jesus will resurrect these dead ones.^(g) If you're dead, here's your chance to come alive and live strong.

a: Matthew 7:24-26, b: Luke 5:31-32, c: Ephesians 2:19-21, d: Isaiah 41:10, e: Ephesians 2:1-3, f: John 3:1-21, g: Romans 10:9-10

(thought history)

Nothing is Impossible

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 11:43:09 GMT

Grant Taylor: With God, nothing is impossible.

~quote from Facing the Giants (PG)

Far, far too long has it been since I've have taken the time to hit the keyboard in honor of a movie "review". Well, that time has hopefully ended. The pull within me has been far too strong to ignore any longer and the excuse of the lack of time is rather pathetic. I'll just make time ;) At least today I have a day off from the office, right?

Facing the Giants, I guess you could say that writing about this movie with what the purpose of this blog has been is rather like cheating; however, I probably need the "easiness" of this kind of movie to get back into the flow. As for the film itself, when I first saw it was pleasantly surprised. Normally, Christian films a viewed as very low budget and no where near a quality film... often they have a very distinct B level feel to them. I have to say that Facing the Giants is a large step away from this stigma. Certainly the budget was not huge for this film; however, the humanity-based story portrayed has the power to touch the heart of anyone. The "can do" message laced throughout the movie is good for any viewer's soul. Don't miss it. Now, on to the chosen quote...

With God, nothing is impossible; this is one of the themes you'll find throughout this picture. The experiences Coach Grant Taylor faces are enough to bring any man to his whit's end; yet, with the support of his wife, he clings to God and holds on tight to His truth. Speaking of God's truth, Luke 1:37 echoes the truth of nothing being impossible with God.^(a) God's word also reminds us that we can do all things through His Son,^(b) when He is for us... who can be against us?^(c)

These benefits come through relationship,^(d) a relationship with God through His Son, Jesus Christ.^(e) There is no other option, through Christ is the only way.^(f) Come alive,^(g) come to Him.^(h)

a: Luke 1:37
b: Philippians 4:13
c: Romans 8:31-32
d: Luke 11:1-11
e: Romans 10:9-10
f: Acts 4:8-12
g: Ephesians 2:1-10
h: Matthew 11:28

(thought history)

Earn My Forgiveness

Sun, 04 May 2008 13:16:46 GMT

Elizabeth Swann: It's too late to earn my forgiveness.

~quote from Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End (PG-13)

The third installment of the Pirates movies didn't feel like it lived up to it's billing. Perhaps it was the high bar set by the previous two and it merely met those expectations, or being as it didn't totally blow us away it unfairly had been judged harshly. Regardless, it's a good entertaining movie and it's probably not on par with the first but more in line with the second. Anyway, enough of that, I won't ramble on here... just pick it up and watch it for yourself ;)

On to the subject at hand; forgiveness.^(a,b) The moment I heard this line something within me cringed. The thought of having to earn forgiveness goes against the true core of what forgiveness is all about... the word itself even has the word GIVE in it. Forgiveness is something offered, something given to another... it simply can't be earned. In the world of men, we take on this thought-line all the time. People harm us or do us wrong and we hold grudges until we "feel" like letting them go or until the person earns it back... whatever "it" might be. We become so hard inside^(c) that forgiveness doesn't even cross our thoughts... when it is forgiveness that will set us free from the decaying power of those wrongful acts.

As someone who has been wronged, the best medicine for the soul is to forgive. It's not a feeling, it's a choice. Forgiveness never comes easy, though the more you learn to forgive the easier it comes. Forgiveness brings incredible freedom; yet, no one really feels like forgiving someone... it goes against human nature. Often it is the things that go against the normal line of thinking and our feelings that are best for our lives... like forgiveness.

It's not up to us to make sure the wrong doer pays for their actions^(d), it's our responsibility to forgive^(e) and move on with our lives. Earn forgiveness? No, just give it away.

a: Psalm 79:9
b: 1 John 1:9
c: Proverbs 28:14
d: Romans 12:19
e: Matthew 6:14

(thought history)

Someone Calling Out

Sat, 15 Mar 2008 11:54:07 GMT

August Rush: It's like someone's calling out to me, only some of us can hear it.
Wizard: Only some of us are listening.

~dialogue from August Rush (PG)

This film, about a gifted boy who is orphaned and sets out on an adventure to find is birth parents, is fantastic. I had heard mixed reviews, but I knew I wanted to gather my own opinion on it... and when I caught it in the theater, I was completely pleased by this lovely flick. I highly recommend it, and I think it will be on DVD very soon.

The film does feature this "magical" feeling that Evan Taylor gets and appears to consume him. Later in the film when his name is changed to August Rush and he is conversing with Wizard (Robin Williams) he tries to explain the feeling that overcomes him. He describes it as if someone is calling out to him and he believes that he is one of the few that can hear this call. Wizard confirms that "only some are listening". This whole thought and subsequent conversation reminded me of something slightly different...

God, by His Spirit, calls out to every one of us.^(a,b) He sent His Son, Jesus to give us the means to reconnect with Him for eternity^(c)... and He calls out for all of us to return to Him.^(d) The problem is "only some of us are listening".^(e) These deaf ears grieve the heart of God and though God's heart breaks for these people, it is these very people who are missing out on the greatest opportunity of their lives.^(f) God loves, is love^(g) and desires more than anything to shower His love on mankind. This love is given freely^(h) and abundantly⁽ⁱ⁾ for those who believe in Him, commit their trust in Jesus Christ making Him Lord.^(j)

Someone is calling out to you, be one of those who are listening and respond to His call.

a: Matthew 4:19
b: Mark 1:17
c: John 3:16
d: Isaiah 44:22
e: John 10:2-4
f: Romans 6:23
g: 1 John 4:16
h: Ephesians 1:6
i: 1 Timothy 1:14
j: Romans 10:9-10

(thought history)