Invincible
My husband, Jim, and I went to see an incredible movie this afternoon! I was looking forward to going to see "Invincible" for two reasons: 1) free air conditioning -- it has been 110 degrees in Riverside this weekend and 2) the movie is set in Philadelphia, PA, where I spent much of my youth. Based on a true story, it is about the life of Vince Papale, who played for the Philadelphia Eagles for three seasons.
My grandfather wanted grandsons and he got my sister, Pamela, and I, so I learned to love every sport imaginable and enjoy most sports films. I often get asked the question"don't you love Southern California?" by native Californians and, in many respects, I do. However, there is something mystical and magical about going home. As I sat in the theatre, I took a trip back to the old row homes and blue-collar neighborhoods of my hometown. I visited with the neighbors who cared about my future and sat in the local bar with "characters" that reminded me of my grandfathers friends (which by the way was where I learned to play darts, pool and shuffleboard).
While I was allowed to take a trip down memory lane, there were also valuable leadership lessons throughout the movie for me to reflect on, as well. Take chances. Laugh. Humility is a virtue -- and rare to find. One person can make a difference. Find the good in others -- always. Choose to be kind before being right. And, lastly, as Martin Luther King, Jr. said, "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy." Go Vince!