My Best Friend Is A Monster

Hey fellow classmates! I was very interested in what we discussed in lecture this week. The idea that vampires, mummies, or any type of monster is a symbol of humanity seeking redemption. It opened my eyes up to villains also seeking this, whether it be in a film or our lives, they can fight for love and forgiveness. 

In the Christian faith it is known that we are all sinners but if one tries to do good and is sorry for their actions, God will always forgive them. I would like to bring up Edward Cullen from Twilight as a great model of this Christian virtue because he understand he is a monster but tries extremely hard to not kill humans but instead to feed off animals. Edward is a monster but a monster trying to be an angel. 

      

This is true for Sloth in The Goonies as well because he tries to be better then the monster his family and the young kids think he is. He helps others and seeks redemption by freeing the kids from the cave as the true villains were after them. 

In both these cases the monsters have best friends who believe in them - believe in their goodness and stick with them through it all. Christians are called to do this with our neighbours and these partners do it with their so called "monsters".

Therefore, I am trying to point out that even though monsters may be scary or posses life threatening powers, it doesn't mean that they cannot show emotion, love, or remorse. 

Re: "Violence as Entertainment"

I wanted to respond to your blog  ccandelario but specifically your final thoughts: "Maybe the reason why violence can be viewed as entertainment is because it's our way of engaging in and connecting with our inner violence."


I think that this is very true. I adore films, I go there to emerge myself in a dream like state where for 2 hours I get to become an artist in Paris or a fugitive on the run - we can escape reality and do or be anything. Isn't this why people play video games - to escape their reality and play in an exotic fantasy world? 


I'm not a huge gamer, but I do play occasionally and it is exciting to virtually see yourself on screen fighting goblins or driving Homer Simpson's car. 
Maybe violence in video games isn't such a bad thing because it allows gamers to release those violent emotions virtually. 

Where is the line drawn between the real and the virtual?

During our lecture on violence, gaming, and popular culture I was constantly reminded of a film I recently watched, "Act of Valor". It is about the US navy seals and their missions, but the interesting part is the actors are real navy seals in the US army. This movie was so realistic and eye opening because it was filmed and edited - for some aspects of the movie at least - like you were playing a video game. It was very realistic and not dramatized very much, but still making it emotional and truthful.

Here is the trailer and I am sure just from watching this short clip you will be able to see a glimpse into these mens eyes:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=35b_UqGYZgw&feature=relmfu

It is a great movie for anyone who plays Modern War Far III or any other violent video games because sometimes we forgot that a solider on screen is a solider in real life who really has to go out and fight these wars. It is not a game, its life or death; there is no pause for energy boost here.

This may seem like a movie review, but the film is great for those who need to remember our fallen soldiers and the reality of using an AK-47 in combat.

Is Tim Tebow Playing Football Or Bringing Revival?

Hi everyone, 

I wanted to comment on Professor Harris' topic of Christianity in sports. I am involved in a youth group at my church and alot of the young people talk about Tebow or Lynn and how cool they are. It makes me happy to know that they can find God in places other then church, they can find Him in sports, or the laundry store, or when flipping the channel. 

Tebow has spread the message of living your life for God, no matter where you are He is standing there with you, which also comments on the topic of suffering and being called to Christ.

Tebow helped evangelize his fans and bring love to those watching a game. Christianity in sports will hopefully help some people be reminded of God everywhere they are. 

Re: A Thought on suffering and the call for Christians

I was inspired by your friend Tom's sermon, it is the truth. God stands with those who can't stand on their own.
This post reminded me of the current phenomenon that is currently trending on Twitter, #stopkony. If you haven't seen or heard of this event here is the video explaining the situation.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4MnpzG5Sqc


The reason I wanted to post this video in response to Jordan's blog is because it is the essence of what Tom's sermon was explaining. Although many people did not know of the kony situation before it trended on Twitter, Jesus was with them. He suffered with them and now people worldwide are also suffering; Jesus decided to bring this to our knowledge and hopefully help.


This video is a call for all Christians to stand up, be aware, and act! Suffering happens all over our world and as a follower of Christ we are required to go where Jesus is needed.


I think it will be appropriate to quote Mother Teresa in saying, "Be the change you want to see in the world."