Monday, May 01, 2006

Unbridled Emotions

I have had a really tough two weeks. Mostly job-related stress and a flurry of responsibilities to address. You know, when you reach a certain age, you are expected to handle such adversity with maturity. As a business-owner, I face intense scrutiny for my decisions and reactions to conflict. I'm not allowed to cry.

I have a Netflix subscription, but it's difficult to find time to watch movies, now that the kiddo has entered softball season. Finally, I was able to watch "Radio," uninterrupted. A friend of mine suggested the film, and I had caught bits and pieces of it on satellite. But I wanted to fully immerse myself in the movie experience. Immerse, I did.

I was amazed at the acting skills of Cuba Gooding, Jr. I recall his performance in "Boyz 'n the Hood," when he was just a young actor. And who could forget his enthusiastic Oscar acceptance speech when he won for his supporting role in "Jerry Maguire?" The fact that "Radio" involved sports made this even better. Plus, I'm a sucker for anything based on a true story.

My daughter thought I was a blithering idiot during the scene when Radio found out about the death of his mother. I was sitting on the couch, literally crying and bawling great hitching sobs, right along with Radio. Tears were flowing down my cheeks, uncontrollably - and it felt SO GOOD. I am an incredibly passionate individual, in every aspect of my life. It was just the release I needed.

I strongly encourage you to watch this film. It reminded me that there are others so much less fortunate than I, and it is my responsibility as a decent human being to reach out to those who would benefit from my assistance. In one way, the story of Radio was a gift to me. I will find a way to return the favor.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

a suggestion - CHARADE with cary grant and audrey hepburn, though your daughter may be too young to fully appreciate it joe h.