I just got done watching The Blind Side with my children.
They were mesmerized by Leigh Anne Tuohy, who they found to be both tough and loving.
Oh, and funny.
The best quote of the night came from my son who pronounced that other than the fact that I’m not “country”, Leigh Anne and I were/are similar.
I was flattered. And affirmed. By my own son.
See, tonight, he got a completely different glimpse of what a Christian woman can be. Not that he’s surrounded by stereotypes, but it was the strength, the determination, and, well, guts of Leigh Anne, that set her apart from those 1) who reach for average, 2) are not ashamed to speak up for the dignity of another human being, 3) and go out of their way, and comfort zone, to REALLY treat a “neighbor” like they ought to be treated. And, not only visit their neighborhood – but invite them to theirs.
And . . . she stood up TO evil. And held her own. In the projects, and on a football field. (Now I realize some of this was Hollywood – but my kids saw something new – something they admired.)
I am in the midst of a heat wave. A heat wave where God is giving me many “words” to speak – knowing that not all will appreciate or agree with the message, or the method of delivery – which, like Leigh Ann is straight up. It’s fatiguing me, for often my intentions are misunderstood and taken personally, rather than received for being MY conviction. I’m weary. A bit worn. A bit dehydrated. Often, the heart behind what seems like a heated message can get lost in my steely delivery.
I’m a bit sun-burned. But God has not told me to be quiet . . .
So, I took comfort in the film tonight. And in the confirmation that my children see me as similar to this brave Southern lady.
“Look, here’s the deal, I don’t need y’all to approve my choices alright, but I do ask that you respect them.” ~Sandra Bullock as Leigh Ann Touhy
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