WARNING: PHILOSOPHIC RAMBLING AHEAD!
I believe that words and deeds are two constant elements in this universe that measure a man (or woman). Words on their own merit, have a proven potency that changes desires to destinies. Many men have rose to prominence with words of uplifting and edifying discourse. Some have used words to manipulate and move themselves to positions of power. We know that words have power. When written they can live eternal. But our deeds are the actions that create impact, that create kinetic energy that moves mountains in our lives.
Being human, I realize my words don't always line up with my actions, or sometimes my own words doom and destroy my innermost hopes. But when they line up with my actions and have a positive light shining on them they have the potential to uplift and empower me in a way I was meant to live. I'm working on making my words work for me. I need them more than ever to help me through the most challenging times this country has seen, which has in turn made for some of the most challenging days in our personal lives.
Blah, blah, blah...
I for one find positive energy in the very rare combination of learning and being entertained. Some movies that have graced the silver screen have given me that satisfaction. But there are those that never make it to theatres that I tend to enjoy more than most: documentaries- stories of real people and real events from a perspective of artistic presentation.
For the past few weeks I've cued up my instant play Netflix full of documentaries. The lack of variety of newer films along with my constant curiosity of the human condition compelled me to chose this unlikely genre These sometimes delightful, very insightful and informative films have been my medicine for some interesting times in my world. Some of the docs I've viewed thus far have had an over arching theme, with are large panoramic world lens while others has the telescopic focus of remarkable personal feats.
Next to video games, docs are my new vice. With that said, one documentary in particular combines both in the most engaging and entertaining fashion. The King of Kong: Fist Full of Quarters had me contemplating life one barrel at a time.
At first glance, it might seem like a film of two grown men locked in battle over juvenile recreation , but the director captured the pure element of competition and the motives behind each contestand and the emotions that ensue. It moved me enough to understand that it really wasn't about who was best at Donkey Kong, but what's right and what's wrong in the world.
The analogy of a champion flanked by a kingdom of followers versus the family man, a diligent, lone challenger who just wanted to feel "in control" of something in his life is a classic tale. A Rocky story, but with a joystick. Eventhough I'm a self proclaimed dork and gamer, I recommend this doc for non-geeks. It should make you laugh and cry...or not.