It's Time For... Another Movie Review! "The Crash Reel"

I was privileged to hear Kevin Pearce, along with two of his brothers, David and Adam, speak at the National Down Syndrome Convention about two weeks ago.  We were 'teased' with a clip from this documentary film, and I finally got around to seeing the rest of it. 

Wow.  This is... not an easy film to watch, and mostly because it is very honest, and very real.  You travel the journey along with Kevin, his family and his friends, and you will witness the sometimes extreme life of 'extreme' athletes.  The documentary does explore the levels to which these sports are going, with increasingly complex tricks, on higher pipes, which mean more air, but also worse falls, as well as the issue of health insurance- which often does not cover what these athletes do.   

At age 18, Kevin Pearce seemingly popped up out of nowhere, and began winning all kinds of competitions, and was for all intents and purposes the only real rival for Shaun White on the snowboard.  Within four years, they were both preparing for the Vancouver Winter Olympics, when came a fateful practice on a pipe in Utah, less than 60 days before.

The accident (yes, it was captured on video)- compared to some others you will see through the course of the documentary actually doesn't LOOK too terrible, though the results were a catastrophic traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Afterward, there is a lot of healing and readjustment that has to take place, not the least of which was six months in the hospital, and this is the part that I found captivating.  In many ways, looking at Kevin and hearing him speak, you would not know the long road he has traveled in recovery.  And he wanted nothing more than to snowboard again.  This despite doctor's dire warnings against hitting his head again, and the worries expressed by his family,and probably no one more than his older brother David, who has Down Syndrome.

Kevin's journey to realizing and accepting his new limitations is a long road, and it took many 'puzzle pieces' coming together, such as trying a small jump on a snowboard and being unable to make it, meeting someone else who had multiple brain injuries, and finally, the death of a pipe skier at the same place he had his accident.  All of these things forced him to look at his new reality, to see what his strengths still are, and work towards a new goal and purpose.  There is a wonderful parallel made at one point, between Kevin's accepting his new reality and limitations, and his brother David finally trying to accept the reality that he has Down Syndrome. 

Ultimately, that purpose materialized in a foundation called "Love Your Brain".  LoveYourBrain is "the message that embodies our positive approach to brain injury prevention and recovery. Everything we do is about connecting, educating and empowering people to promote a brain healthy lifestyle." 

173,000+  people treated for a TBI each year are 19 years old or younger, and there is a growing awareness of concussions among student athletes.  Kevin's story, and that of his family, is a great one to share to talk about this issue, and experience it in a very vivid way. 



 

   

Movie Clips... The New Parable?

Jesus often used parables, stories to give the people who were listening an understandable context for what he was trying to teach.  He used familiar ideas and relationships- farming and fishing, crops, inheritance, family and even an unfriendly relationship with the Samaritans, to share his message.  The interesting thing is, what most often resulted was confusion, unease, and at times anger.  Jesus rarely explained his parables, and often if asked he responded with a question or... another parable.      

I would like to present videos, or movie clips as a way to do the same thing in a catechetical setting.  What are movies but visual stories?  Like Jesus' parables they tell their stories in familiar places and situations and in the midst of familiar relationships.  Movies can take us into history, or even beyond our own world into the most fantastical places.  They have also presented visually some of the best that fiction has to offer.  They are a rich tool particularly for many with special needs in their ability to 'illustrate' ideas and stories.  I used this one to be able to give my kids in sacramental prep a glimpse of the Last Supper, and to make some of the connections to what they see and hear at Mass.

Videos and movie clips can also be very thought provoking, particularly if preceded and/or followed by some prayer time, and a good discussion starter.  Tough issues can be more easily brought up if you are talking about a character.  Here's one to begin a conversation about salvation history, or sin and grace, and...??   
     

Also, do not underestimate the power of Disney- I would even say in particular Pixar.  Their movies have had some beautiful affirmations of community, marriage and family, and individual gifts- just to name a couple of things (come on, you probably teared up during the opening 15 minutes or so of 'UP" too)   

 
I would not suggest showing a 60 or even 30 minute segment of a movie- that does not allow for much if any lesson, or good discussion, and is not a good use of already limited time.  3-5 minutes is a good time to aim for and is usually long enough to get the point across.  

This means that any clip we show must be carefully chosen, with a few questions in mind: 

1.  Is is appropriate for the audience?

2.  Does it clearly illustrate the message or story it is intended?

3. OR, can it be used to spark/fuel discussion on the intended topic? 

A couple things to note: first, be aware that if you show a clip from a movie some may want to go and watch it all.  A great clip from a questionable movie might not be worth it.  So it is always a good idea to be aware of and follow viewer guidelines and policies for parental permission/notification. 

You can find a wealth of videos and clips on YouTube  another good place to look for movie clips is WingClips

What are some of your favorites?? 


   

Curiosity

 

 

 

I had a difficult time expressing 'curiosity', so I decided to look it up.  Curious means "eager to learn or know, inquisitive", also "arousing or exciting speculation, interest, or attention through being inexplicable or highly unusual; odd; strange" (dictionary.com). 

 

We are naturally curious, but our curiosity is sparked by different things.  I am much more eager to learn new skills in baking, or even with electronics or mechanics than in say, plumbing (not to say that is lesser- thank you God for plumbers!)  The same is true of the faith, and there are limitless 'curiosities' in the revelation of God.  It might be Scripture, a particular teaching, the mystery and beauty of the liturgy that draws someone in, or sacramentals like rosaries or statues.  For example, My husband and I took my niece once to Divine Liturgy (Byzantine Rite) and talk about a picture of 'curiosity'- at the age of two, she sat with me the whole time just LOOKING at everything, with wide eyes, and thumb in mouth.  So, I took the opportunity, this time to quietly point out and identify a few things for her.

 

 

Nothing is quite so curious as Jesus.  Historically speaking, he should really not have been more than (perhaps) a blip on the timeline.  Born to a poor family, he worked as a carpenter and taught publicly for just three years before being killed by crucifixion (pretty much the worst form of death in existence) as a criminal, for blasphemy.  Why? He claimed to be the Son of God, the 'King of the Jews'.  And yet, today, Christianity is the world's largest religion, with 2.2 billion followers, 50% of which are Catholic.  In other words, love him or not, Jesus is not someone who can be ignored.  I think Fr. Barron said it well, "He either is who he says... or he's a madman!"  Jesus asked his followers "Who do you say that I am?" Well... that's pretty much the question we want to spark... "who is Jesus"?     

 

We have to be able to answer this question for ourselves first.  Then, as we do with any great friend, we talk about Him- we share his story, and 'our story'.  We post pictures and stories, quotes and good times had with any of our friends and family all the time on Facebook.  Kind of the same idea, if Jesus is a friend, like any relationship, he's going to come up!

Relationship with Jesus changes us, and shifts our perspective in life.  He sheds a light on our very existence, the beautiful and difficult realities we face- if you let him.  Following him shapes our thoughts, words and actions, leads us to prayer (talking to Him), to his Church (his community), and to the sacraments (sharing in his life- God's life).  Now more than perhaps ever, it is a mystery, a "curiosity" to see someone living a relationship with Christ.  There is something attractive, which can't be readily explained or put in "a box," and which raises questions. 

 

It is important to know that while intellectually, specific doctrine may be inaccessible to some, this "living witness" of faith and relationship with Jesus is accessible to anyone. And those with special needs, whose lives in many ways are themselves a 'curiosity,' can provide in a very powerful and real way that same glimpse of Jesus, who as Henri Nouwen reminds us, "revealed Himself in vulnerability" as a helpless baby, and later on the cross.

"We are to live lives of such inexplicable joy, love, faith, and peace (even in trial)

 that all the normal categories by which non-believers try to classify us won't work."



Threshholds of Conversion: "Can I Trust You?"



 

 

Catechesis, which is supposed to be the teaching and maturing stage of evangelization, doesn't make a lot of sense if a person does not know who they are learning about and have a basic sense of trust. Trust can be "a positive association with Jesus Christ, the Church, a Christian believer, or something identifiably Christian." Trust is a bridge which allows a person to continue on their journey to an intentional relationship with Christ. If that bridge of trust does not exist, the journey will not go very far, so our first job is to help build it.  

Building trust and building a relationship often go hand in hand, particularly when trust has been violated, such as in the sex-abuse scandal, or if a child or adult and their family has been turned away from a church or program because of their special needs.  Often it is a person living their life in integrity, compassion, warmth and joy, who becomes a doorway through which others can begin to establish trust again.  This takes time, and to do it we have to (as Pope Francis says) take on the "smell of the sheep" and get a little dirty.  This means getting to know the person, listening, gaining knowledge and understanding of their joys and struggles, and as much as possible being present for both with that integrity, compassion, warmth and joy.  If this sounds daunting, remember this is not just a task for one person.  Anyone can be this "doorway" for another, and we are each attracted to different things, different people.      

In a classroom setting what this looks like is a teacher modeling love and respect for each student at all times including addressing students by name, and modeling respectful language, tone and volume- also by addressing disrespectful behavior firmly.  If this is done in a particular way when others are around, this example can end up reaching parishioners more generally. 

A beautiful, orderly atmosphere of gentle calm and quiet creates a sense of safety, and a sense of safety builds a sense of trust- trust in the teacher, but also a realization that he or she can trust God.  What we are saying about dignity, and how a person is loved by God is much more effective if we are giving the example first of how we treat them.  I am speaking from a 'classroom' perspective, but it should be noted that children begin to build 'models' of security and trust long before they reach any classroom, which is why an intentional example at home is so vital.   

A few years ago, I visited the kindergarten classroom of a master teacher.  I was struck by the natural peace and order I saw in this classroom and in the interactions.  When I asked her, she told me something I've never forgotten- "forming a classroom is like giving birth"- the process can be long and painful, but the result is beautiful and priceless.  The same is true for building trust, and relationships.    

Disposition and the Sacraments...

 

 It's always a little scary, talking about intention, disposition and receiving the Sacraments.  Yet, it is a fairly frequent question that comes up when a person with special needs wishes to receive the sacraments, and particularly when it is a person who has a developmental or mental disability.  But, it is a good question- how do we know if a child or adult who in some instances cannot communicate their intention and understanding outwardly, can validly and fruitfully receive the sacraments?  The first and shortest answer is, disability in and of itself is never a reason to delay or deny a sacrament.  I'll be sticking mostly with the Bishops on this one, but will be adding some commentary along the way, and I'll include a link to the full guidelines at the end.

Sherry Weddell describes a "positive disposition" as when a person embraces "both the sacramental sign, and the inward reality."  A sense of the sacred, and a "positive disposition" can be found in surprising places.  There is a friend in one of the SPRED groups who is known to close his eyes and raise his hands in prayer while the Scripture passage is being read.  He was also the one to express that though he was frustrated at the loss of some of his freedom when he was hit by a car (for the second time) he sees God working in his life, giving him opportunities to grow and renew himself. That is a kind of trust and hope that I can look to as an example. 

A "positive disposition" can look different from person to person, particularly when it comes to those with special needs. For example, some people indicate the difference between the Eucharist and ordinary food by matching pictures, or by sign language.  Others simply by a quiet, reverent manner, or gesture.  In fact, part of the reason the age for receiving Holy Communion was lowered was because of a little girl, 4 years old, who recognized in the Eucharist her beloved "Holy God," and expressed reverence, as well as a firm desire to receive Him.  This is what is asked of all people who wish to receive Holy Communion.     

Baptism is probably the most straight-forward.  Basically if a person freely asks for it, is properly disposed, and is not legally prohibited, the only reason the Bishops give to defer is if "there is no reason for hoping that the person will be brought up in the Catholic religion".  Further,  "Disability itself is never a reason for deferring baptism.  Persons who lack the use of reason are to be baptized provided at least one parent or guardian consents to it" (page 8-9). 

This is what the bishops tell us about Confirmation: "All baptised, unconfirmed Catholics who possess the use of reason may receive the sacrament of Confirmation if they are suitably instructed, properly disposed, and able to renew their baptismal promises."  This, and also if a person to be baptized is of a teachable age, is where developmentally appropriate catechesis, and adaptation comes in, and there are several choices as far a programs that can be used as well.

 



There is even provision for if a person will never attain the use of their reason "Persons who because of developmental or mental disabilities may never attain the use of reason are to be encouraged either directly or, if necessary, through their parents to receive the sacrament of Confirmation at the appropriate time" (pg 11) [emphasis added].  One of the most joyous confirmation Masses I ever attended was that of a young man with Down Syndrome.  He was so quiet during the rite, and then finally afterward he just couldn't contain it anymore, and gave a huge smile, and a cheer.

When it comes to reconciliation, obviously to commit a serious or mortal sin, a person must have use of his or her reason.  That said, even young children, and people with mental disabilities are often aware of doing things they know to be wrong, and experience a sense of guilt and sorrow.  The bishops tell us "as long as the individual is capable of having some sense of contrition for having committed sin, even if he or she cannot describe the sin precisely in words, the person may receive sacramental absolution." And further, "those with profound mental disabilities, who cannot experience even minimal contrition, may be invited to participate in penitential services with the rest of the community to the extent of their ability."

It is not my intention to address all the sacraments here, but more to illustrate the different forms that "positive disposition" and "intention" can take, and how the sacraments can be supported for those who have special needs.  For more comprehensive information, I encourage you to check out the USCCB guidelines. 

Guidelines for the Celebration of the Sacraments with Persons with Disabilities

"The Fruit of Discipleship"

"Indeed, God with his call reaches the call of each individual, and the Spirit, who abides deep within each disciple (cf. 1Jn 3:24), gives himself to each Christian with different charisms and special signs.  Each one, therefore, must be helped to embrace the gifts entrusted to him as a completely unique person, and to hear the words which the Spirit of God personally addresses to him."

- Pastores Dabo Vobis

Today I just want to reflect a little on discerning charisms.  Truthfully, I have never participated in a "Called and Gifted" workshop- though I would be interested to.  What I know of my own gifts came mostly as a result of, well, listening.

When I was younger, occasionally I would watch my brother and two of my cousins who were about his age.  I liked to play school, to organize scavenger hunts for them, to give them ideas.  OK, I was also bossy.  As a young teenager I heard several times different variations of "you would make a good teacher." I was receptive to this idea because I loved, and had a great deal of respect for the teachers I had.  Sure enough, it came time for college, and no surprise, I signed up as an education major.  What was a surprise is that over the next three years, I discovered something- I was not terribly interested in my education classes, and as a result my grades were... less than stellar. 

At that point a good friend suggested something: why not try religious education?  Though I never would have thought of it, there was an instant 'click,' of something being right.  It made sense, I had always enjoyed my religion/theology classes, and had been fairly involved in a few different youth groups.  I made the switch and immediately noticed the difference, and not just in my grades.  This is what engages me, inspires me, and challenges me to grow.

We talked in the book study about the difference between a charism and a talent... Sherry Weddell tells us that "a charism is a "favor" or (in Thomas Aquinas's terminology) a "gratuitous grace" given to build up the Church and to witness Christ to the world" (pg.92).  But that was not terribly helpful in and of itself- we were still thinking in terms of "talent".  So we looked at a list of 'common' charisms: evangelism, encouragement, teaching, wisdom, healing, intercessory prayer, hospitality, administration, leadership, mercy, and giving to name a few.  Suddenly we understood the "favor" part, this is not something you inherit or can "develop" the same way you might a talent for art or sports, or music.  These are also things that are meant to "expand outward," they are for others. 

Sometimes charisms show themselves in situations in which they are needed, sometimes they manifest themselves gradually as a person's relationship with Christ deepens, but all of us have been given these gifts.  I want to encourage you to consider what your gifts, your charisms might be.  Think on the patterns of your life, the things people have said, even off-hand, and what you yourself notice.  Also, do not be afraid to affirm other's gifts- especially in the young. Sometimes hearing it can plant the seed to help that person grow in confidence to use the gifts they have been given.  Knowing your gifts, and being centered in the source of those gifts, can lead to an unimaginable sense of purpose, creativity and initiative.                              

Movie Review: "The Reluctant Saint"

I don't quite know why it took me so long to watch this, but this weekend I finally had the chance and was so glad I did.  This is a beautifully done movie, with a wonderful cast. 

Giuseppe is a young man who is full of life and love.  He is also somewhat clumsy and 'slow'- he has a very hard time learning and remembering things.  For this, he is teased and bullied and often finds himself in trouble that he did not necessarily cause.  I found it very difficult to watch how he was treated by children and adults in the town, his mother and even many of the friars at first.  It really bothered me until my husband helped me put it into some perspective.  This is why he is a saint, this is life- we are all saved by the Cross, and this was his Cross (or at least one of them).  In thinking about it, I realized too, that Giuseppe was a wonderful witness of today's Gospel. 

Jesus said to his disciples:
“You have heard that it was said,
An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.
But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil.
When someone strikes you on your right cheek,
turn the other one to him as well.
If anyone wants to go to law with you over your tunic,
hand him your cloak as well..."

Giuseppe was not a witness because he was perfect.  When things went wrong, often he tried to hide, but ultimately he did accept the consequences.  The one time he makes an attempt to defend himself, and chase away a friar who was harrassing him, as soon as he realized what he had done, he knelt and asked forgiveness.  And another time, when he realized this same friar had taken the bust of a broken statue of Mary that he loved, he snuck into the stable.  Whether he intended at first to take it back I don't know, but what he did was replace the bust to a more beautiful and prominent place in the stable.  Ultimately, he knew love and lived it out- and did his best to make it right if he fell short.

It is a bishop who finally sits and speaks with Giuseppe one night, and realizes the deep and simple love for God, and for the faith that Giuiseppe has.  The bishop also recognized in Giuseppe's care of the animals, the soul of a shepherd, a gift for caring for the lost and broken 'sheep' of the Church.  This bishop started Giuseppe on a journey that led him ultimately to the priesthood, a difficult journey of study, with some of the best help his order could provide, and in which nobody quite expected him to succeed, though many hoped for him. 

Finally, Giuseppe could never have realized his calling, or accomplished the work necessary without a community around him.  The friars supported him in his studies, encouraged him, and quietly helped him if he forgot some words in the Mass- the community embraced him with his weaknesses and his incredible gifts and in doing so helped open Giuseppe up to his own gifts, and all that God was calling him to.