Sunday, January 08, 2006
Children of Heaven spiritual movie review
Spiritual Movie Review - Children of Heaven
Children's Race Highlights First Film from Iran to Win Oscar Nomination
by Bob Kish of Wealthvibes.com
Children of Heaven is the first film from Iran to win an Oscar nomination for best foreign film. This is the story of a young boy Ali and sister Zahra and their quest for a pair of shoes. A pair of shoes? Yes, a pair of shoes. You think you have problems. Watch this and your problems might seem a little smaller in comparison. Or even a lot smaller.
Here, the brother loses the sister's shoes and knowing that their family can't afford another pair sets about trading off the one pair that they have in common. This gets old fast for the both of them - especially for Ali as he starts becoming late for school. The solution?
There is a long distance race for school kids that features three big main prizes. One of the prizes includes a new pair of shoes. Tricky part is that it is given to the person that finishes in third place. Even trickier is that Ali has missed the deadline for trying out to even get in the race.
This is one part of the movie that I loved and highlights the persistent nature of children that we sometime lose as we grow older. Because Ali has a burning desire to get into that race and win those shoes for his sister he absolutely won't take no for an answer when asking his coach to get in the race. His coach is adamant that the deadline has passed. As unyielding as he is it seems no match for Ali's insistence that he must be in that race. A little thing maybe but amazing to watch unfold.
The race itself is exciting. How does Ali do? Is he able to win the shoes for his sister? This is one worth watching to find out.
What is spiritual about these movies? The warm loving relationship between the family members, particularly the brother and sister,"... to continue click here for the Children of Heaven spiritual movie review.
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Spiritual Movie Review - Shawshank Redemption
Spiritual Movie Review - Shawshank Redemption
Get Busy Living or Get Busy Dying
by Bob Kish of wealthvibes.com
This classic from 1994 is based on a Stephen King short story. It was nominated for seven Academy Awards including Best Picture, Actor, and Screenplay. It stars Tim Robbins as Andy Dufresne, a man falsely convicted of the murder of his wife and her lover and sent to Shawshank prison to serve two life sentences beginning in 1947. There he confronts the harsh realities of prison life. At the same time he bonds with several of the inmates most notably Red (Morgan Freeman).
The mood alternates from despair and hopelessness as the years pass by for Andy Dufresne. You begin to realize that he just may spend the rest of his years behind bars. As this realization begins to sink in for both the viewer and Andy he develops a number of lifelong friendships.
In what form does redemption eventually come to Andy? You'll need to see Shawshank Redemption to discover and appreciate it's power.
What is spiritual about this movie? It is a testament to the individuals ability to perservere in the face of overwhelming physical, emotional and mental persecution. Andy Dufresne not only maintained a system of coping with the hardships of prison but adapted to the system and made it work for him. He also maintained and used a network of close friendships to help make it through. Do you have a system to adapt to change? How about a system of friends to fall back on for support?
Memorable Quotes
Warden Samuel Norton: I believe in two things: discipline and the Bible. Here you'll receive both. Put your trust in the Lord; your a** belongs to me. Welcome to Shawshank.
Red: These walls are kind of funny. First you hate 'em, then you get used to 'em. Enough time passes, gets so you depend on them. That's institutionalized. They send you here for life, that's exactly what they take. The part that counts, anyways.
Andy Dufresne: Get busy living, or get busy dying.
Motivational Article - How to Put an End to Depression - by Phil de Fontenay at www.50spiritualmovies.com
Motivational Article - How to Put an End to Depression - by Phil de Fontenay at www.50spiritualmovies.com
How to Put an End to Depression
by Phil de Fontenay
Depression can have many, many faces. If you are not aware of your feelings and emotions on a daily basis then it can creep up on you and cause misery in your life when you least expect it.
We get sad when we fail in our exams, when we're rejected by the person we love, or when someone very close to us passes away. Depression, however, could be more fatal than just plain sadness. It could cause life-long consequences that could ruin your self-esteem, your health, and your well-being.
Here are some excellent tips for conquering depression and to help you get the most enjoyment out of your daily activities.
1. Be Certain of Your Future Goals
If you have no goals then the future will seem uncertain. This will create anxiety and just add to the problem. Having goals gives you something to look forward to in life. They drive us on and create a desire for life. Keep your focus on your goals.
2. Keep a Journal.
Every day, write down your deepest feelings. Say what you want to say. Get it out of your head and onto paper. Don't hold back. This is a very therapeutic way to pull yourself back up. Keep writing down whatever comes into your mind and very soon you will feel your mood start to improve. Done properly, this method can create dramatic changes in emotion.
3. Get Enough Light and Sunshine.
Lack of exposure to sunlight is responsible for the secretion of the hormone melatonin, which could trigger a dispirited mood and a lethargic condition.
Melatonin is only produced in the dark. It lowers the body temperature and makes you feel sluggish. If you are always cooped up in your room (with the curtains closed), it would be difficult to restrain yourself from staying in bed.
This is the reason why many people are suffering from depression much more often in winter than in the other seasons. It's because the nights are longer.
If you can't go outdoors to get some sunshine, you can always lighten up your room with brighter lights. Have lunch outside the office. Take frequent walks instead of driving your car over short distances.
4. Keep Busy. Get Inspired About Something.
It's a fact that people are happiest when they are producing something. Do some activity that you have always wanted to do. Live a life full of inspired activities.
What is it that you really love to do? What are you passionate about?. Taking a nice walk in the park, playing sports, reading books, or listening to some soothing music.
5. Make Some Time For Yourself.
I mean it.
Listen to soothing music. Soak in a nice warm bath. Ask one of your close friends to massage you. Take a break from your stressful workload and spend the day just goofing around. In other words, have fun.
6. Eat Healthy and Exercise Regularly.
Avoid foods with lots of sugar, caffeine, or alcohol. Sugar and caffeine may give you a brief moment of energy; but they would later bring about anxiety , tension, and internal problems. Alcohol is a depressant. Many people drink alcohol to "forget their problems." It never works. The ONLY way to handle problems is to confront them. Describe your problems in your journal fully. If you really face them the right solution might appear.
Exercising regularly is a vital depression buster.
7. Increase Your Social Life.
Your friends are there to give you moral support. Spending time and engaging in worthwhile activities with your friends could give you a very satisfying feeling. Nothing feels better than having group support.
Get intimate. Establish close ties with your family and friends. The love you get from others is very satisfying. In times of depression having stable influences around you is comforting.
Really take control of your own life. Follow these tips. Come up with your own solutions. You really CAN do it!
Phil de Fontenay has been counselling people in all aspects of life for over 15 years. He has helped many people take back control of their lives. He firmly believes that ANYONE can get better.
Find out more about depression at www.BuildaBetterYou.com/depression
Motivational Article - Stay Debt Free this Xmas - Top 10 Tips - by Linda Anderson at www.50spiritualmovies.com
Motivational Article - Stay Debt Free this Xmas - Top 10 Tips - by Linda Anderson at www.50spiritualmovies.com
Stay Debt Free this Xmas - Top 10 Tips
by Linda Anderson
Xmas can be a financially stressful time for many people and that takes the fun out of the festive season. The funny thing about Xmas is it occurs every year and at the same time every year! So with a little bit of planning you can take the stress out and stay debt free.
Here are my Top 10 tips to get you on you way:
Tip1. PLAN
Write a list of the friends and family members you wish to give a present to. Next decide on your total budget for Xmas presents. Next to each name add a maximum dollar value for the gift and ensure the total does not exceed you budget! If you have ideas for gifts start listing them now – it will help your shopping trips be more focused.
Tip 2. STICK TO THE PLAN
When you do your gift shopping stick to the plan – avoid impulse buying. That stereo might be a great “bargain” but if it is over your budget you need to keep walking.
I am sure you have great taste in gifts – do you ever buy a gift for someone and buy it for yourself as well? You will get plenty of gifts for Xmas – no need to buy for yourself as well.
Tip 3. START NOW
Rather than waiting until 2 weeks before Xmas and spending all your money in a short period of time start buying now. It is much easier to afford one gift each payday than 10 all at once. Find a good hiding place in your cupboard!
Tip 4. USE LAY-BY
Credit Cards are easy and convenient but if you struggle with debt over Xmas leave them at home! Interest rates on unpaid monthly balances are an unnecessary cost. If you have started shopping early you can pay a small amount each payday off your lay-by without going into debt. Keep you spending manageable.
Tip 5. HAVE A SAVING PLAN
Have a separate bank account for Xmas savings. Many banks have accounts that earn “bonus” interest if you make a deposit and no withdrawals in a month. Many of these accounts have no bank fees. You can arrange for set amounts to be automatically transferred to that account each payday. If you don’t see it you can’t spend it! If you are comfortable banking online there are also good “virtual” accounts with Credit Unions that pay around 5%pa and allow you to transfer money out of account with no penalty.
Tip 6. THINK OUTSIDE THE SQUARE
It really is the thought that counts so think outside the square. People love gifts that have a personal touch to them.
make Xmas chocolates, cookies, jam etc to give to friends
give a gift voucher for 10 hours of babysitting
make a donation to charity in their name
give a voucher for 5 lawn mowing afternoons (to be provided by you)
Tip 7. INVOLVE YOUR FAMILY
Discuss your plan to stay debt free with your family and discuss ways that the whole family can be involved. There are no rules – find something that works for your family and keeps Xmas fun. One popular idea is to not buy gifts for all the adults in the family – just the kids. The adults each select a name and buy a gift for that adult on behalf of the whole family. Xmas is about love and sharing not about how many presents you receive. You will probably find other family members feel relieved to be able to reduce their Xmas spending too.
Tip 8. ANOTHER COFFEE?
Start becoming aware of what you spend on “little extras” each week – coffee is my favourite place to start. Buying just 1 coffee a day can cost you $10 - $15 per week … buying lunch each day at work can cost you at least $25 per week. I think you get the point. If you are serious about keeping out of debt this xmas start taking your lunch to work or having instant coffee …. put the money you save into your xmas account. You will love how quickly this adds up!
Tip 9. LEAVE THE PLASTIC AT HOME
That’s right – leave the Credit Card at home! If it is not in your wallet you cannot charge Xmas shopping to it. It is so easy to accumulate debt without even being aware of it – once you do it snowballs into something much greater than you can handle and becomes a weight to begin the New Year. Use cash or you debit card – you can’t spend money you don’t have.
Tip 10. BE COMMITTED
You have a choice. If you are 100% committed to being debt free for Xmas then you will make it happen. It takes focus, desire and discipline not to take the easy, convenient and expensive way out of Xmas shopping. ‘Those who want to succeed will surely find a way, and those who don’t will find an excuse’ “a thousand paths to tranquility” David Baird
Linda Anderson is a Certified Professional Coach working with Small Business Owners and Professionals in Australia, New Zealand and the USA. Linda helps her clients succeed in business and in life by creating strategies to overcome their obstacles to success. In 2002 Linda and her partner sold all their belongings, hit “pause” on their respective careers, and spent 365 days traveling the world. Linda brings this passion for challenge, new experiences and adventure to her coaching. You can visit Linda at her website – www.a2acoaching.com
Sunday, October 16, 2005
Jim Rohn article - positive attitude
Jim Rohn article - positive attitude: "Attitude is Everything
by Jim Rohn
The process of human change begins within us. We all have tremendous potential. We all desire good results from our efforts. Most of us are willing to work hard and to pay the price that success and happiness demand.
Each of us has the ability to put our unique human potential into action and to acquire a desired result. But the one thing that determines the level of our potential, that produces the intensity of our activity, and that predicts the quality of the result we receive is our attitude.
Attitude determines how much of the future we are allowed to see. It decides the size of our dreams and influences our determination when we are faced with new challenges. No other person on earth has dominion over our attitude. People can affect our attitude by teaching us poor thinking habits or unintentionally misinforming us or providing us with negative sources of influence, but no one can control our attitude unless we voluntarily surrender that control.
No one else 'makes us angry.' We make ourselves angry when we surrender control of our attitude. What someone else may have done is irrelevant. We choose, not they. They merely put our attitude to a test. If we select a volatile attitude by becoming hostile, angry, jealous or suspicious, then we have failed the test. If we condemn ourselves by believing that we are unworthy, then again, we have failed the test." Click here to continue...:
Motivational Article - Isn't it Time You Started to Fly?
Motivational Article - Isn't it Time You Started to Fly? - by Damien Senn at www.50spiritualmovies.com: "Isn't it Time You Started to Fly?
by Damien Senn
I am going to begin this article by sharing a shocking fact�.
Did you know that if you opened the door on every single budgie cage around the world (and we are talking a lot of cages here...) fewer than 5% of our imprisoned feathered friends would actually embrace the window of opportunity provided and fly away!
Hard to believe I know.
Most would choose to do exactly what they've always done. Spend a bit of time moping around on the swing, maybe the odd moment glancing into the mirror and the rest of the time keeping a close eye on the rise and fall of the bird seed.
I bet you could just imagine the dialogue being squawked around the enclosure as well. Chances are you'd hear priceless banter such as
'There is no such thing as being as free as bird�.squawk'
or 'Those sparrows have all the luck�squawk, squawk'
or from the really disgruntled budgies�.
'it's all my parents fault that I was born inside a cage�.squawk, squawk, squawk!'
So what has this got to do with leaving your job and starting up your own business I hear you ask?
Your Cage Door is Always Open!
Well the most important thing for you to realise is that the door of your employee cage is always open. Whether you stay or whether you fly away is completely your own choice. It has nothing to do with your boss, nothing to do with your irritating co-workers, customers or suppliers and everything to do with you.
You have to accept responsibility! Click here to continue this article...
Ten Inspirational Movies
Inspirational Movie - Spiritual Resources For Inspirational Movie: "Inspirational Movie
If you are looking for a good inspirational movie check out the free brandable ebook 50 Spiritual Movies. There are a number of inspirational movies reviewed within its pages.
Ten Inspirational Movies
Some inspirational movies listed within the e book but not reviewed include the following:
The Motorcycle Diaries
Kundun
Chocolat
Like Water for Chocolate
Chances Are
The Big Blue
The Big Lebowski
Seven Samurai
The Emerald Forest
The Shipping News "
Sunday, October 09, 2005
Free Brandable Motivational E Book 50 Spiritual Movies - How Many Have You Seen?
Spiritual Experience: "Free Brandable Motivational E Book 50 Spiritual Movies - How Many Have You Seen?
50 Spiritual Movies is a free spiritual e book freely brandable with your money-making affiliate links. The spiritual book is in PDF format so can be enjoyed by both PC and Mac users.
This ebook reviews spiritual movies, motivational movies and inspirational movies. You may also find reviews on metaphysical movies and even a reincarnation movie review. The ebook also reviews the Spiritual Cinema Circle a unique spiritual movies club that finds the best in spiritual cinema to share with its members.
Started by Stephen Simon, the Spiritual Cinema Circle, is a dvd movie club that is unique in the respect that it highlights films of a spiritual nature. If you've ever seen a Stephen Simon movie (like Somewhere in Time with Christopher Reeve or What Dreams May Come with Robin Williams) then you know what to expect. Although the films aren't primarily G-rated fare like you'd get with the very popular Disney Movie Club, they will often tug at your heart like the Disney movies.
There are no movie downloads with this spiritual cinema club. It is better than an ordinary online movie rental club in the respect that you never have to return the movies - they're yours to keep. Each month you'll receive a steady supply of spiritual cinema in the form of foreign films, short films or shorts, independent films, documentaries and feature length spiritual movies.
After joining the club, many have started a spiritual circle where they gather once a month to share these spiritual dvds.
What the online movie rental clubs have is lots of variety. If you are interested in more than just spiritual films try the industry leader Netflix.
The last time I looked the Spiritual Cinema site even had some inspirational and motivational movie clips. Click below to visit:
"
Spiritual Movie Review - How Did This Hit Man Movie Make the List of Best Spiritual Movies?
50 Spiritual Movies: "Spiritual Movie Review - Collateral
How Did This HitMan Movie Make the List of Best Spiritual Movies??
by Bob Kish of wealthvibes.com
How does a movie about a hitman make a spiritual movie list? Like a good hit man it sort of creeps up on you and takes you by surprise. There have been other hitman movies that could contend for a place on a spritual movie list - Road to Perdition and Leon the Professional come to mind. In this case, Collateral is not only a slick typical Michael Mann production with a fast pace, hypnotic soundtrack and crisp acting but it is at the same time a moving story about dreams deferred. A story that will make you ponder your own life. And that ability to make you look at where you are at in your own life is what contributes to making it a spiritual film.
Tom Cruise is the silver-fox hitman Vincent that hops in Max's (Jamie Foxx) cab and proceeds to use him as the driver in an overnight L.A. killing spree. But he also pushes Max to start thinking about his own life and why he hasn't pursued the dreams that he's had.
What is spiritual about this movie? Though steeped in violence there is a cutting undercurrent of hope that beats throughout. The metaphorical long dark night of the soul becomes a literal one for Max. By the same token it becomes the catalyst that he needs to reexamine his own life and by transference a catalyst that we can use to reexamine our lives as well. Are we where we want to be? Are we following our own dreams? If not, what are we waiting for - someone to put a gun to our heads? :)
Memorable Lines:
Max: First time in L.A.?
Vincent: No. Tell you the truth, whenever I'm here I can't wait to leave. It's too sprawled out, disconnected. You know? That's me. You like it?
Max: It's my home.
Vincent: 17 million people. This is go"
Spiritual Cinema Secrets
Spiritual Cinema Secrets: "Spiritual Cinema Secrets
What Two Secrets Can You Apply to Turn Every Movie You Watch into a Spiritual Experience?
by Bob Kish of WealthVibes.com
There are two things you can do to transform Every movie you watch into an opportunity for spiritual growth and learning. What are they?
Before revealing the secrets of turning simple cinema into spiritual cinema you might want to examine your movie watching tendencies. What are your favorite movies? Do you prefer romance, comedy, sci-fi, adventure, westerns, etc.?
While these movie watching secrets can be applied to any movie, it is important to remember that what you put into your mind helps to shape your reality and view of the world. With that in mind, why not choose movies that will motivate and inspire you?
Though a steady diet of horror or crime films might excite you, they might also leave you with a view of the world that is less than stellar. A negative outlook on life will not help you in your interactions with others or in your quest for achieving what you truly desire in life.
On the other hand, watching motivational and inspirational movies can help spur you to improve your own life and the lives of others. So, the next time you go to watch a movie, why not make it a film that will uplift or inspire you - or at the least bring you some joy?
Your choice of movie will make applying the following secrets easier to implement. (Remember, though they can work with any movie).
THE FIRST SECRET
What is the first secret to turning any movie you watch into a spiritual experience?
It is simple but powerful. Before the movie begins close your eyes and ask your mind or subconscious to pick out and remember any aspects of the film that you can use and apply in your own life to make yo"
Retreat and Surrender?
: "Everyone needs a spiritual retreat now and then. A spiritual retreat is more than just a vacation.
A typical vacation may leave you feeling more burned out than when you left - often from rushing back and forth while trying to squeeze as many sites as possible into a short timeframe.
A true spiritual vacation on the other hand is a retreat from all the hustle and bustle. A time for renewal and regeneration of spirit, mind and body.
With the goal in mind of renewal there are a number of spiritual retreats that you can do - from two hours to two weeks or longer depending on how much time you choose to make. (notice I didn't say depending on how much time you can spare - with the hectic schedules these days many folks don't have any spare time. So, make the time...) :)
What is Your Idea of the Ultimate Spiritual Retreat?
Part of the fun of a spiritual retreat is the planning stage. Think about what would relax and regenerate You. Incorporate things or events into the plan that will accomplish this.
A spiritual retreat might be something that you want to do alone. Alone you'll find more time for contemplation and far less distractions.
On the other hand, there are groups that get together to make spiritual pilgrimages, attend motivational functions and the like. These too are beneficial.
Here are some suggestions for a spiritual vacation that can be a time of healing and renewal.
1) Go to a place that represents spiritual power for you
2) Immerse yourself in a place of natural beauty - i.e., Sedona, Chaco Canyon, Yellowstone, any wilderness area, or beach area, etc. You can swim with the dolphins in many parts of the world, including Hawaii, where you can even lodge with other group members.
3) Take along meditation, relaxation, motivat"
The Best Gift to Give Yourself and Others
The Best Gift to Give Yourself and Others
by Jim Rohn
I'm often asked the question, "How can I best help my children, spouse, family member, staff member, friend etc. improve/change?" In fact that might be the most frequently asked question I receive, "How can I help change someone else?"
My answer often comes as a surprise and here it is. The key to helping others is to help yourself first. In other words, the best contribution I can make to someone else is my own personal development. If I become 10 times wiser, 10 times stronger, think of what that will do for my adventure as a father... as a grandfather... as a business colleague.
The best gift I can give to you, really, is my ongoing personal development. Getting better, getting stronger, becoming wiser. I think parents should pick this valuable philosophy up. If the parents are okay, the kids have an excellent chance of being okay. Work on your personal development as parents; that's the best gift you can give to your children.
If you have ever ridden in an airplane, then you might have noticed the oxygen compartment located above every seat. There are explicit instructions that say "In case of an emergency, first secure your own oxygen mask and then if you have children with you then secure their masks." Take care of yourself first... then assist your children. If we use that same philosophy throughout our whole parental life, it would be so valuable.
If I learn to create happiness for myself, my children now have an excellent chance to be happy. If I create a unique lifestyle for myself and my spouse, that will be a great example to serve my children.
Self-development enables you to serve, to be more valuable to those around you; for your child... your business... your colleague... your community... your church.
That's why I teach development skills. If you keep refining all the parts of your character, yourself, your health, etc. so that you become an attractive person to the marketplace - you'll attract opportunity. Opportunity will then begin to seek you out. Your reputation will begin to precede you and people will want to do business with you. All of that possibility is created by working on the philosophy that success is something you attract by continually working on your own personal development.
To Your Success,
Jim Rohn
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This article was submitted by Jim Rohn, America's Foremost Business Philosopher. To subscribe to the Free Jim Rohn Weekly E-zine go to http://www.JimRohn.com. Copyright © 2005 Jim Rohn International. All rights reserved worldwide.
For more great articles by Jim Rohn visit:
http://www.wealthvibes.com/spiritual-articles.php
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