Super Size Me

Amy and I recently watched the film Super Size Me. In this documentary Morgan Spurlock attempts to show the connection that exists between obesity and fast-food by going on a "McDonald's-only diet" for 30 days. On this diet, Spurlock had to eat three meals a day that consisted only of food and drink available from McDonald's. When he begans his test diet, Spurlock was in great shape. Yet, by the end of the 30 days, his health had deteriated tremendously.

Granted, Spurlock does take fast-food eating to the extreme. But it often takes something drastic in order for us to pay attention to what is being said. Is our nation unhealthy? Yes. Could we do better at encouraging one another to eat healthier and exercise? Yes. Does this mean that we should limit our intake of processed and fast-food? Yes. Will it be difficult for us to make these changes? Yes. Is it worth it? Yes.

After watching the film, I don't believe that the solution is found in totally rejecting processed and fast food. Intead, we must learn to eat these foods in moderation. As a father of three beautiful girls, I want to do everything I can to help them become healthy, active young women. And part of that process certainly involves teaching them how to make wise food choices.

If you're interested the movie, you can watch the entire movie for free here.

The Tick and a Few Friends from the Past

Cartoons are not what they used to be. Where are the classic cartoons that were actually creative and funny? They are certainly not available on Saturday mornings anymore. (How do shows like Brats actually pass as good cartoons anyway?) Fortunately, many great cartoons from the past are now available on DVD. (I'm sure that they are available on some cable station, but we still don't have cable or the Dish.)

Anyway, I'd like to know what cartoons some of you enjoy. So, use the comment section to list a few of your favorites.

Here are a few of my favorites (in no particular order):

Paradise Now

I do not want to reveal too much about this movie in case some of you would like to see it. So, in short, this story is about two friends who are part of an Palestinian extremist group who have been chosen to take part in a suicide bombing in Tel Aviv. In their minds, the only way to stop the oppression of their people, is through violent measures. Yet, when things go awry both men are forced to reflect upon their decisions.

All of much should be reflecting upon terrAfter September 11, the U.S. was tragically awakened to the reality of terrorism...a reality that much of the world has lived with for so long. And since 9/11 terrorism has not let our television sets, newspapers, magazines, or dinner-time discussions. No matter if the discussion is about the United States so-called "war on terror" or some other international conflict, we cannot ignore the situation. Therefore, how should we, as Christians, respond to the present discussions and happenings? There are so many questions that we could address right now: Is the current war in Iraq just? Is there ever an occasion in which war or violence is permissible? Should Christians be supporting the nation of Israel?

Although we could delve into these specific issues, today I would like to put forth a few verses from God's Word that I think can help us deal with a more foundational question: "how should we "fight" against violence/war/oppression?" For Said, Khaled, and their extremist group, retaliation (through violence) was the only answer. Yet, for Christians, retaliation cannot be our answer.

"You have heard that it is said, "An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth." But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you. You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven." (Matthew 5:38-42)

I also think that Ephesians 6:10-20 is essential for us to consider. We must remember who the real enemy is: spiritual forces of evil. These forces will not be defeated with guns and bombs. Rather, they have already been defeated and disarmed at the Cross. So, let us battle him (and violence/oppression/war with the whole armor of God. Let us hold forth the Word of God and bring the "gospel of peace" to a world that is in desperate need.

Nobody Knows

About a week ago, Amy and I watched the Japanese movie Nobody Knows (originally released as Dare mo shiranai), which is based on actual events. Although the movie is sad, there are joyful, inspiring moments scattered throughout the movie. So, if you don't mind watching a long (2 and 1/2 hours) foreign film with subtitles, then you might enjoy Nobody Knows. Anyway, here is a very brief plot summary:

When we first meet the family, the mother and her oldest son Akira are carrying suitcases into a new apartment. When they arrive inside, they open the suitcases and two siblings emerge. (Later, Akira picks up his other sister from the airport.) The mother then informs the children that no one can know that they (i.e. the other siblings) are living in the apartment; therefore, none of the children (except for Akira) are allowed to go outside of the apartment. The movie takes a dramatic change when the mother leaves the children and never returns. The remainder of the movie centers on Akira and his three siblings as they try to stay together even in the face of loneliness, poverty, and death.