The other day I watched Sense and Sensibilities. I think this is my very favorite Jane Austin movie. I know, I need to break down and read one or two of the actual books. My heart just pitter patters to many of the romantic chic flicks though I do like the ones that are matters of the heart best. S&S falls in line with this.
I know that sometimes there is a danger watching these movies, at least there can be for me. That my heart will desire the romance that I see on the screen, but is sometimes near impossible to duplicate in real life. My way around it is enjoying the movie, and watching to see if there is anything I can learn from it. Ways that I can be more romantic in my life.
However, this last time I enjoyed watching it for yet another reason. My munchkin watched it with me. They watched the girls cry, and the boys turn their backs. They watched love succeed, and hearts melt. And most importantly they learned that a girls heart is a very tender and sensitive item. One that can be broken without ever being touched.
I want my boys to know that no part of life is a trial run for another part. That every day is important, and lessons can be learned at all times. That no girl is there for them to figure things out with, but that she is a beautiful creature just where she is.
There are a lot of theories on dating and marriage and love and life. I am allowing my children to come up with their own theories, with much advice, wisdom, and guidance. I do know that ultimately it is their decision, or they will fight it. But if they can learn that each girl out there is a child of God with a tender breakable heart, then I think I may have done something right.
My girls back in Brandon refer to these movies, when allowed to touch us in the negative way you described first, as Girl P0rn. It does for a woman what the other stuff does for a man, gives us an illusion that we mistake for reazlity.
Fantastic!
This sentence of yours:
That my heart will desire the romance that I see on the screen, but is sometimes near impossible to duplicate in real life
reminds me of a quote I read yesterday that keeps it real (especially in love and marriage): LOL
Anyone who imagines that bliss is normal is going to waste a lot of time running around shouting that he’s been robbed. Most putts don’t drop. Most beef is tough. Most children grow up to be just people. Most successful marriages require a high degree of mutual toleration. Most jobs are dull. Life is like an old time railroad journey–delays, sidetracks, smoke, dust, cinders and jolts, interspersed only by occasional beautiful vistas and thrilling bursts of speed. The trick is to thank the Lord for letting you have the ride.
you are going to have very blessed daughters (in law) someday.