As I waited to watch a special screening of the first film in colour to win an Oscar, I wandered through the different characters, their roles, and what each brought to the story. It is hard to imagine anyone else in a specific role. I pushed my imagination and found myself taking on the role of a reviewer. It was easy to imagine the critic’s words if my story was not compelling. Given that I live in it, I asked for advice. Life’s whispers chipped in with the following.
To be real, one must be authentically present. Passionate belief that is authentic can be felt by the audience. When one is less than truthful, the truth is known within. My experience reminds me of feeling weak and dark when I bring this to the moment. When I am real, even in failure I can feel hope’s support.
Harmony between the characters is often underrated. I am not suggesting that every story needs to be sweet. Life is often a battlefield between good and evil with temporary moments of quiet. Harmony is born and lives in the presence of mutual acceptance and respect. It may not be easy, yet this is a challenge I find in replaying with slight variations across each scene of my life. In difficult times I hear the echo of an old prayer; “May our dependably steady and warmly personal God develop maturity in you so that you get along with each other as well as Jesus gets along with us all.” (Romans 15.5)
Compelling stories endure. The screening last night was first released 85 years ago. The characters, issues, and lessons from the old story were engaging, compelling, and full of insights. As I think of the day ahead, I know there will be opportunities to engage. Each is a moment that, if one cares to make a difference, one can be a force for good. I know there are times when I do not give a d*%$. My prayer is that I bring compassion, acceptance, and harmony to the present moment.
