Why can't I watch movies for a living?

Well, I finished watching "Employee of the Month" - my first Blockbuster Online selection. It was funny, had a few "morals of the story", and, par for the course regarding this type of movie, had quite a few crude moments! Starring stand-up comedian Dane Cook (reminded me very much of a young Will Ferrell), and Jessica Simpson, with quite a few other recognizable faces, the movie centers on Zack's ambitious efforts to gain Amy's attention by winning the afore-mentioned title.
It provided a visual lesson in remembering your friends while chasing your dreams, and working towards goals without losing sight of your true passion in life.
Rated PG-13, it's not for everybody, but still pretty tame compared to a lot of other movies. I laughed a lot, and while the humor was fairly amateurish, it didn't get boring. (p.s., If you're able, watch the deleted scenes for Eva Longoria - her character continues "later" in the movie...)
I really was only interested to watch this movie since I read online that Needtobreathe's "Shine On" was part of the soundtrack - it was!



After being told by a co-worker, and also a friend, to watch ""Wicker Park", I was able to get it transferred from a library in the lending network, and watch it.
Both referrers told me they "didn't get it", and while the movie timeline does jump back & forth, I didn't find it difficult to keep up with.
It posits the "what-if" question that so many of us have... What if you had continued with that person? What if things had worked out? What if you had a second chance?...

Matthew, successful in his career & engaged to beautiful Rebecca, overhears a voice in a crowded restaurant. He catches a glimpse of the voice's owner, and is positive she is his lost love, Lisa. Rather than traveling to close a deal for his employer, he stays to track her down. He encounters an old friend, Luke, who tries to reason with him while juggling a delicate relationship with his "girl", Alex.
Matthew's efforts lead to some temptations & painful revelations for himself & his friends, but he emerges a better man.

There are many points in this movie that I was able to identify with, some painfully so. There are so many paths we may choose which lead us astray, no matter how promising & correct they seem at the time. We will all be tempted, but, as Jesus Himself set the example, we can rise above, and if it's in God's plan, we'll get another chance.
I've heard it said, "God is the god of second chances". Often, we need more than one to see the bright path He set aside for us before time, but I believe if we trust Him, follow Him completely (not just for the sake of getting what we want), and wait for His time, He'll lead us to what He intended & open our eyes.

So, back to "Wicker Park"... This movie details the mistakes & complications that can arise when one selfishly chases one's desires, but also gives hope through owning up to one's mistakes.
I think we all have just one person who was designed exactly for us, and for no other. With each disappointment comes a clearer picture of who that person is - what we can hope for.
I pray that we all find that person, without needing too many "second chances".



listening to...

3 Doors Down - Landing in London
Coldplay - The Scientist
Five for Fighting - The Riddle