There's nothing like a good movie

Maybe it's trite. Maybe it is a tired theme after how many different movies and books about spelling bees. But, somehow these brainiac children warm our hearts -- as they should. Even if we don't want to be influenced by the touching narrative that Starbucks offers us, it's still sweet. And you can't help but cheer for both Akeelah and Dylan in the end!

But, what I really love is the self esteem booster that is offered by Akeelah's coach. It's a Marianne Williamson quote (who I admit I know very little about).* And I don't really care because her words are enough for me. They offer a sermon that I can take away after my popcorn is gone.

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same."

And that's really what matters. Go and be powerful beyond measure, because child, you already are. Amen. Amen. Amen.


* Ok, I just went to visit Marianne Williamson's website to learn more. Oprah likes her, but I'm a little scared. I love, love, love the quote in the movie. But, I was really hoping that it was going to have some more weight than something from a woman that writes self help books that are loosely based on religious beliefs. Oh. That was mean. Sorry honey, God love you Marianne. But, I'm nervous.