This week TFN and I went to see The Orphanage. I really can't say too much about this movie without giving it away, but you should all go see it - it's an early front-runner for best of the year in my book. It's creepy without being violent, and the script is pleasantly unpredictable. Really, take my word for it, and know that it's good. The less you know walking in, the better.
I have become very much wrapped up in the idea that this year should be focused on living better. Physically, mentally, environmentally... just being better about stuff.
Part of this is the idea of paying it forward.
Paying it forward is, for those who never saw the film or read the book, the idea that one should do nice for others with the intent that they will repay you by doing nice for the next person who needs it. The original pay it forward revolved around it being financial, but I don't think it needs to be.
A few years ago, TFN and I were both unemployed. During our financially repressed situation, a lot of great friends treated us to the occasional drink or dinner out. So many, in fact, that we lost track. We never did, nor could we ever hope to, return all the favors.
Unfortunately, we have now had the opportunity to pay this forward. Michigan is hurting, and a lot of my friends are out of work. The least we can do is pick up a few bar tabs here and there. It was done for us, and we count ourselves lucky right now to be able to do it.
You can call it what you want - paying it forward, karma, being a friend - but it really comes down to being there for the people who need it, in the hope that, while they may be there if you ever need it, also hoping you never will need it, and the help can go to someone else.
3 comments:
The only way to live is to live with deeds we can be proud of, karma, especially good karma, aint nothin like it.
Nuff said.
Just checked and I can't beLIEVE "The Orphanage" is in town. We're so rarely treated to foreign films, and our local video stores are practically devoid of them. Intriguing trailer -- I'll be going to Monday's matinee.
Paying it forward feels so good.
Prediction: one day you will receive an unexpected windfall. This is when it will dawn on you that you've "evened up" all "accounts" without knowing it, because, beautifully, you have failed to "keep score." You'll think back to the last "forward payment" you made, and for the first time, you'll do the math. You will then see that your last "forward payment" has been returned to you, tenfold. You'll say, "Huh. Go figure." or "Holy crap!" or "Sweet!!!" but you probably won't say, "Hey, TFN, 1 Kings 17:10-16 was right," because the law of tenfold return has been written, like everywhere.
Maybe it's all preparatory for turning 35. I'm feeling karma breathing down my neck.
Zilla says I can be naughty again after January 31st.
Well, she says things will be easier to deal with after the 31st, and I'm holding herto it.
Sounds like you do the right thing for right's sake, and that's probably why your Karma got you published.
I have to go feed ponies now, and freeze my ass off while doing it.
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