Okay, so I realize I am talking about a comic book movie however there is something deeply disturbing to me about a movie that glorifies a successful weapons manufacturer who after suddenly developing a conscience and a heart decides to give it all up to become, well, a successful weapons manufacturer -- the only difference, now he manufactures exclusively for his own personal use since weapons can't always be trusted to find their way into the hands of the righteous.

My ten year old daughter counted 50 deaths in the movie in the first 15 minutes -- then lost count.

My wife thought the movie was awesome and didn't understand why I thought it necessary to "preach"  to her and our daughter after the movie. (My wife is a long time Robert Downey Jr. fan).

From a technical standpoint, I must say, the movie is truly a standout. It is funny and dramatic and the special effects are awesome -- everything you could want in a Hollywood comic book movie. The only problem is that the underlying message is "might makes right" (when placed in the right hands), and that the solution to the world's troubles is some sort of blend between humanitarianism and deadly weapons manufacturing. Is this a message that is good for the world? And should discussions such as this be encouraged? 

If I didn't believe this movie was going to be a worldwide mega-blockbuster, I wouldn't have bothered to waste time and energy punching the computer keypad -- but I do -- and it saddens me immensely. Not that I am into censorship -- I just wish that we as human beings weren't so accepting of violence of any kind, even in the name of self-defense and security.

Are my feelings on this unwarranted? Am I making a big deal out of nothing? Love to hear your thoughts...

Namaste,

Mathew

This past Mother's Day, my mother shared a very beautiful prayer with me. Of all the prayers I have heard or read in recent years, this one completely and perfectly reflects my current awareness. :-)

From The Lighworker's Way by Doreen Virtue:

I choose to stay centered in the awareness of love, God, and my true self. In this center, like the eye of a hurricane, all is tranquil, safe, and peaceful. My power, wisdom, and peace comes from staying in this center, and I ask for spiritual support from God and his angels to keep my mind aligned with truth. I willingly detach from the material world, knowing that by so doing, I can effectively help others. I trust God to provide my every need, and I allow His omnipotent wisdom to direct me in all ways. I accept a steady diet of love and joy, knowing that I deserve happiness and health. I willingly and lovingly release all ego judgment about myself and other people, knowing that everything I want comes from my decision to experience the oneness of all life. I know I am meant to be a healer and a teacher for God, and I now accept my mission fully without delay or reservation. I surrender all behaviors that would block me from hearing my inner voice, and I happily trust my inner guide to lead me along the lightworkers way, where I joyfully serve as an instrument of love. I release any doubt or fears I may have about fulfilling my Divine mission, and I now commit to staying aware of my inner Voice for God. I know that this is the only tool I will ever need for my own healing and the healing of the world.

Amen