Hope/Disappointment
Tell her you love her. Recently, when my wife, Meg Korpi, was dying of cancer, a longtime friend offered some advice I’m really glad I heeded: I should write and read to her a tribute, expressing what she’s meant to me and how much I love her. (Short op-ed)
Dealing with Disappointment. Is life not measuring up to your expectations? We all experience disappointment: troubled relationships, poor job evaluations or test scores, death of a loved one, health or employment challenges, social snubs, athletic loss. Practical ways to keep disappointment from defeating you. (Magazine article) Spanish French Chinese
When the Good Guys Don’t Win. Though nice guys don’t always finish last, they don’t always finish first. How to cope when your dreams don’t come true, or when life hammers you in spite of your best efforts. (Magazine article) Spanish
Hope for a World Gone Bad. Life can be messy. Maybe you’ve felt like giving up. Here are some reasons for hope. (Magazine article)
An Easter Bunny – and an Easter Story – Worth Remembering. A child’s humorous encounter with a department store Easter bunny carries some lessons on hope of inner renewal through the first Easter. (Short op-ed)
Starting Over: Facing the Future After Significant Loss. When a fulfilling relationship turns to ashes, or your cherished job is torpedoed, or your health falters, or you lose a loved one, or all of the above or more… how do you cope? Practical tips for landing on your feet and continuing life’s race. (Magazine article.) Spanish French
Coping with Job Loss. I got an email recently from another laid-off colleague. One more recession downsizing casualty. I’ve been there, too. How do you help a friend – or yourself – cope with losing their job? (Short op-ed)
Soul Surfer: A thought-provoking film for the whole family. A 14-foot tiger shark bursts through the waves and tears off 13-year-old Bethany Hamilton’s left arm. Three months later, she’s surfing competitively again. If you’re looking for inspiration to thrive in tough times, the true story of this determined teen’s triumph over tragedy will knock your socks off. (Short op-ed by Meg Korpi and Rusty Wright)
Les Misérables film: Mercy Triumphs. Could receiving a healthy dose of kindness and mercy help transform a person’s life? Victor Hugo thought so. The 19th Century French social reformer wove his famous novel Les Misérables around the theme of grace trumping legalism. A new film based on the successful musical opens Christmas Day. (Short op-ed)
Man of Steel movie: got hope? “What’s the ‘S’ stand for?” Lois Lane asks Superman in the new movie. “It’s not an ‘S’,” responds the Man of Steel. “On my world, it means ‘hope’.” Man of Steel is a fun film that taps deep human desires for self-identity, purpose and hope. How do you find genuine, lasting hope? (Short op-ed)
Caring for Her Husband’s Love Child. Would you volunteer to care for your spouse’s love child? Debbie Fuller faced that decision. Her choices – and how she made them – may inspire you and your family. (Short op-ed)
Linsanity movie: hoops, hopes, Harvard, heaven. Benchwarmer Jeremy Lin set the basketball world ablaze when he led the faltering New York Knicks to seven straight wins and helped boost them into the NBA playoffs. The film documentary of his phenomenal rollercoaster ride – from struggling underdog to global star – will inspire you. (Short op-ed)
Heaven is for Real, movie claims. Colton Burpo says that at age 3, he went to heaven, saw Jesus, heard angels sing, and met both his deceased great grandfather and his miscarried sister. The best-selling book about him is now a major motion picture. Is heaven for real? (Short op-ed by Rusty Wright)
Moms’ Night Out movie: Laughs, plus hope for frazzled moms. Want laughs, plus a way to tell a mother she’s loved? Take her to see Moms’ Night Out, opening Mother’s Day weekend. On the set, actors and producers promised the comedy would be a hoot. They’ve delivered, with loads of family fun. I laughed out loud. (Short op-ed)
The Identical movie: Elvis-esque, secret past, conflicting dreams. Ever have trouble getting people you love to embrace your life dreams? You’ll likely identify with Ryan Wade. Music is in his soul. He has the looks, voice and moves of Elvis, and drives audiences wild. But his preacher father has different dreams for him, setting up a monumental collision. A fun Rock ‘n’ Roll parable with an upbeat, inspiring, message about finding purpose, revealing secrets, and experiencing redemption. (Short op-ed)
Unbroken movie: hope, despair, redemption. When Louie Zamperini boarded a World War II bomber in late May, 1943, unforeseen dangers awaited the Olympic runner and war hero. He later said he’d prefer suicide to repeating his castaway and POW ordeals. His enthralling story – told now in film – still inspires. (Short op-ed)
Cleveland Abduction: Courage, faith, riveting TV drama. No one should have to suffer what Michelle Knight and her fellow captives did in Ariel Castro’s house of horrors. With gripping realism and tender reflection, Lifetime’s movie tells this absorbing story from abduction to liberation and beyond. (Short op-ed)
90 Minutes in Heaven movie: There and back again? What’s it like to die and go to heaven? Don Piper believes he knows. A horrendous 1989 auto accident left him battered, bloody, and – according to four Emergency Medical Technicians – dead. Yet 90 minutes later, he was alive. He says he visited heaven’s gates, heard celestial music, met deceased friends and family, saw streets of gold, and sensed God’s presence. Was his heavenly experience real? (Short op-ed)
Captive movie: gripping Atlanta hostage drama. Her story captured a nation’s heart. Hostage Ashley Smith reads to courtroom killer Brian Nichols from Rick Warren’s The Purpose Driven Life. Two broken, wounded souls navigate a risky journey about purpose, survival, faith and redemption. (Short op-ed)
The 33 movie: Chilean miners’ despair, faith, miracle rescue. In this dramatic true story that captivated the world in 2010, a huge explosion traps 33 miners deep underground. Up top, an international team works frantically to save them. With miniscule rations and little human hope – but with deep determination and fervent prayer, both above and below ground – the miners last 69 days until liberation. (Short op-ed)
Miracles from Heaven movie: Astonishing outcomes. A nine-year-old girl falls thirty feet, lands headfirst, sustains only minor scrapes and bruises, and leaves the hospital the next day. She says she visited heaven and sat in Jesus’ lap. Eventually, her chronic, life-threatening illness is gone. What happened? (Short op-ed)
Batman v Superman movie: Superhero rumble. Both stand for good, fight crime, and help the needy. So, why are these two guys fighting each other? Is it turf wars – Gotham vs. Metropolis? Do they each have Lois Lane crushes? Welcome to the backstory of how these two met. (Short op-ed)
The Real MVP movie: Kevin Durant’s inspiring mom struggles and shines. When NBA superstar Kevin Durant received the league’s Most Valuable Player award, he named his mother “the real MVP.” The standing ovation and subsequent media groundswell confirmed that something significant had just happened, something transcending the game. Now, Lifetime Television brings the inspirational backstory to a wide audience. (Short op-ed)
New Life movie: Real love, real life. As I watched this film, I often felt like the screenwriters had placed a hidden microphone in my home. True love. Romance. Exciting, intimate, emotional connection. Fulfilling, committed partnership. Joys and sorrows. Drama … tragedy … recovery … triumph. This one’s got real love and real life, folks. (Short op-ed)
The Shack movie: God and your tragedy. When your personal tragedy strikes – and it will – is God good? Millions wrestle with that question. The Shack, a bestselling novel and now a movie, uses fanciful fiction to help people process age-old intellectual and emotional struggles about evil, suffering, and divine character. (Short op-ed)
Dunkirk movie: WW2 mayhem and miracles. When your back’s against the wall, and the enemy’s closing in fast, and all hope appears lost, it might be a good time to consider praying. That’s what faced England in May 1940. Hitler’s war machine had pinned nearly 400,000 Allied troops by the English Channel. Surrender or annihilation seemed imminent. The ensuing drama inspired millions and significantly influenced the war’s outcome. Warner Bros. brings this epic story to the big screen. (Short op-ed)
Justice League movie: Hope lost; hope restored. When Superman’s dead – and the bad guys are closing in fast, and all hope seems lost – who you gonna call? How about the Justice League! Batman, Wonder Woman, The Flash, Aquaman and Cyborg team up to fight evil and seek justice for all. Warner Bros. brings their story to theaters on 6 continents. (Short op-ed)
I Can Only Imagine movie: Abuse, anger, redemption. Could you forgive a dad whose rage drove your mother away, and who abused you physically, verbally and emotionally? The film saga behind this popular song depicts with grace, tenderness, and beauty what became of a prodigal father and his unforgiving son. (Short op-ed)
Run the Race movie: dreams, despair, romance, redemption. Ever had a dream die? Or a loved one? Perhaps you struggle with why bad things sometimes happen to good people. Maybe you enjoy romance, brotherly bonds, or football. If so, Tim Tebow’s film (he’s an executive producer) should appeal to you. (Short op-ed)
Mr. Rogers movie: Want him as your neighbor? Ever feel lonely? Underappreciated? Frightened? Need a friend who’s kind? Respectful? Wise? You might like Mr. Rogers. Sony/Tristar’s new film, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, depicts Fred Rogers’ friendship transforming a cynical journalist’s life. (Short op-ed)
I Still Believe movie: True love, rough roads. In the mood for a touching love story? One with romance, challenges, and hope abounding? Popular singer Jeremy Camp’s story could be just what you’re looking for. You may laugh…and cry, too. (Short op-ed)
Hoops Cancellation Withdrawal Disorder. In these tumultuous times, do you have difficulty focusing on work or household responsibilities? Does life seem empty? Do you often daydream about excitement? Are you a basketball fan? If so, you may be suffering from a recently designated serious malady, Hoops Cancellation Withdrawal Disorder (HCWD-20). (Short op-ed)
NFL coach John Harbaugh on COVID sports coping. The coronavirus pandemic has brought global lifestyle changes, and athletes are not immune. Personal identity, control, and security can all become scrambled in chaotic times. Super-Bowl-winning coach John Harbaugh explains how he’s coped amid the loss of sport. (Short op-ed) Washington Examiner version
Coping with COVID-era holiday loneliness. Zoomed out? Exasperated by COVID-era isolation? Longing for face-to-face human interaction beyond your home? You’re not alone. Such craving is widespread, and holiday-induced loneliness brings additional challenges. Maybe some expectation management – and realistic solutions – are in order. (Short op-ed) WashingtonExaminer.com version
‘Wonder Woman 1984’ movie: Will you get what you want? Suppose you could have anything you ever wanted – fame, fortune, relationships, pleasure. Would that make you happy? A megalomaniacal global villain is tapping human desires to help him dominate civilization. In 1984, Wonder Woman races to foil his dastardly scheme. (Short op-ed) Washington Examiner version
Mark Burnett’s ‘Resurrection‘ movie: compelling drama; inspiring story. Mark Burnett and Roma Downey – Hollywood’s Bible Power Couple – are back with a flourish. Their dramatic film about Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, debuting March 27 on Discovery+, captures the personal angst and adventure of those tumultuous days. (Short op-ed)
‘Walking with Herb’ movie: Fun sports drama, inspiring second chances. Need a fun, refreshing break from COVID-world? How about some laughs, mixed with high-level sports drama plus some inspiring second-chance stories woven in for good measure? Veteran actor Edward James Olmos and comic George Lopez will make you chuckle as you ponder in Walking with Herb. (Short op-ed)
‘Blue Miracle‘ movie: castoff kids, fractured families, fishing, and hope. Does your life sometimes seem stormy? Financial woes mounting? Trouble at home or work? Got family conflicts? Need some hope? Maybe what worked for these Mexican orphans and their caretaker is worth trying. Go fishin’. And pray. (Short op-ed)
‘A Father’s Legacy’ movie: What was your dad like? Did you ever want to feel valued by someone special? Or mourn losing a loved one? Ever wish you could undo past decisions or take back hurtful words? Maybe you know the right thing to do, but lack courage to do it. The complex characters in A Father’s Legacy may resonate with you. (Short op-ed)
‘The Streets Were My Father’ movie: Who’s your daddy? Could you forgive someone who murdered your family member? Or was an MIA parent? Absent, neglectful or abusive fathers can leave lifetime scars. The Streets Were My Father depicts three sons who experienced it all, and have turned their corners in dramatic, inspiring ways. (Short op-ed)
‘Respect’ movie: Aretha’s success, struggles, secrets, soul. Entertainment superstar Aretha Franklin was an industry icon and international treasure. Beloved by millions, honored by presidents, she also struggled with personal and family turmoil. The Queen of Soul handpicked Oscar® winner Jennifer Hudson to play her in this long-awaited MGM biopic. All Aretha was askin’ for was a little respect. Does this movie bring it? (Short op-ed) Washington Examiner version
‘The Eyes of Tammy Faye’ movie: Televangelist sex, drugs, and holy rollin’. The 1980s PTL televangelist scandal became a global soap opera, complete with corporate intrigue, Jesus-praisin’ power struggles, big bucks, betrayal, sex, tears, and mascara…plenty of mascara. The Eyes of Tammy Faye interprets Jim and Tammy Bakker’s saga for new generations, providing valuable life-lesson reminders. (Short op-ed) Washington Examiner version
‘American Underdog’ movie: From supermarket stocker to Super Bowl MVP. Do life’s challenges ever get you discouraged? NFL Hall-of-Famer Kurt Warner’s wild journey from castoff to superstar could inspire you to keep pursuing your dreams. (Short op-ed) Washington Examiner version
‘The Mulligan’ movie: Need a second chance? Ever wish life granted second chances? What would you do with them? The Mulligan movie uses the game of golf to get you to ponder possibilities. (Short op-ed)
‘Elvis’ movie: All Shook Up meets Heartbreak Hotel. Elvis lives. At least in the hearts of his fans, and they are everywhere. Warner Bros.’ new Elvis movie extends the legacy. Why does the raven-haired, swivel-hipped crooner still fascinate millions nearly 45 years after his death? (Short op-ed)
‘Nothing is Impossible’ movie: Hoops, romance, second chances. Feeling battered by life’s challenges? Do circumstantial hurricanes keep hitting you in the face? Could your love life, work, or family relationships use a tune-up? Maybe a rescue or do-over? Chances are you’ll relate to the characters in Nothing is Impossible, a fun and inspiring sports and family drama. (Short op-ed)
‘Till’ movie: Racial murder helped spark civil rights movement. White racists brutally murdered young Emmett Till in 1955 Mississippi. His death, and his mother Mamie’s reaction to it, helped spark the civil rights movement. MGM’s Till tells their compelling story. What gave this grieving mother strength to pursue social change? (Short op-ed) Washington Examiner version
Johnny Cash movie: His life, loves, challenges and successes. International superstar; honored by presidents; a jailbird and addict. Singer Johnny Cash knew great highs and great lows. What was The Man in Black’s legacy? (Short op-ed)
Jesus Revolution movie: ’60s turmoil, radical responses. “Is God Dead?” a 1966 Time magazine cover asked. A 1971 Time cover heralded “The Jesus Revolution.” What caused this cultural shift in the radical 1960s that still impacts us today? Kelsey Grammer (Frasier) stars in a new film that tells part of the story: how a hippie, a drugged-out teenager and a straight-laced California pastor linked up to bring hope to millions. (Short op-ed) Washington Examiner version
Divine dilemma: Who gets God’s nod in March Madness? By Mark I. Pinsky and Rusty Wright. Thursday evening (March16), in the first round of the NCAA men’s basketball tournament, Duke University, a historically Methodist school in Durham, North Carolina, tips off with Pentecostal powerhouse Oral Roberts University, in Orlando, Florida — a Southern Baptist stronghold and a part of the country that takes both religion and college athletics very seriously. If two Christian schools’ fans pray for victory, which one gets God’s favor? (Religion News Service release 3/16/23).
‘Big George Foreman’ movie: Fame, tragedy, triumph, second chances. George Foreman’s storied career has many facets: Olympic gold medalist, twice World Heavyweight Boxing champion, TV grill pitchman, philanthropist. But a near-death experience forever altered his life’s trajectory. Sony’s new biopic conveys his tragedies and triumphs, with inspiration for anyone who ever needed a second chance. (Short op-ed)
Surprised by Oxford movie: Remedying broken relationships. Ever feel awkward opening yourself emotionally in a relationship? Got any family issues that make trusting others difficult? Does that affect your social life, job, or home life? Do you ever use work, studies, or accomplishments to bolster your self-image when, inside, you’re hiding from others? Perhaps you’ll resonate with this film’s protagonist. (Short op-ed) Washington Examiner version.
Baxters TV series: deeply touching emotional dilemmas. Ever fear rejection in romance? Concerned about family members you love experiencing troubled relationships? Been tempted to stray? Wondering whether or how faith and God fit into life’s complicated messes? If so, you’ll probably connect right away with Prime Video’s new deeply moving TV series, The Baxters. (Short op-ed)