If you're one of those folks who's not quite sure how to react to today's newsworthy events, I have a suggestion: Watch Gleason, the powerful, challenging story of former NFL icon Steve Gleason and his ongoing battle with ALS. It's currently available via AMAZON PRIME.
It's a tough film to get through, but it's pretty much perfect for today. A real reminder both of our own, numerous blessings, and of human nature's astonishing ability to rise above adversity. It's not sugar-coated, which is what makes it such a tough watch. But it's far from a despairing one, and it carries a profoundly hopeful message. (That's what might make it particularly helpful for those of us inclined to be excessively pessimistic about what today's ceremony may portend. A little perspective never hurts.)
At the age of 34, Steve Gleason, former NFL defensive back and New Orleans hero, was diagnosed with ALS. Doctors gave him two to five years to live. So that is what Steve chose to do: live. This film incorporates personal video journals from Gleason for his then-unborn son to footage of his adventures undertaken as part of his mission to live his life to the fullest.
For those who are inclined to be super-cynical (or super-optimistic) about today's event, I'm inclined to suggest In The Loop, Armando Iannucci's exceedintly hilarious (and highly profane) satire of Anglo-American politics that is currently streaming on NETFLIX INSTANT. But I'm torn, because I'm not at all sure it'd be good for either group. It'll certainly resonate with the first (and galvanize the second), but there might be just a bit too much vinegar there for ideal consumption. It'll encourage the bitter to further bitterness and chase the latter away when honey might have won them over. So now I'm thinking that everyone should just watch Gleason, no matter their group.