I saw Silver Linings Playbook on Friday and loved every minute of it.  While I haven’t seen all of the award nominees, I can say that all of the films I did see had a really nice flavor about them.  My motivation to go to the movies is starting to grow again.  Perhaps it’s also because I am starting to value the times when I can immerse myself in something and not feel the need to check my iPhone every thirty seconds.  I guess at the core, going to the movies is pure escapism with more sensory input than a book.

I love the name Silver Linings Playbook.  In fact, I love “silver linings” in general.  Life is hard and no matter how high you are there are moments of worry, challenge and loss.  Silver linings often help create perspective.  When I watched the movie and looked at the pain the characters were in, I couldn’t help but think about people I care for who struggle with bipolar and other mental illness.

Years ago when my son Alex was in his early stages of autism, I used to take my other son Jason for “Daddy Day” on Saturdays.  These were almost always spent at a museum (or four) where we would walk the floors and quietly take in the presentation around us.  My son amazed me because he would put on the exhibition headsets and stare at paintings in a way that I didn’t think little kids could.

As a result, my engagement with art became a beautiful escape as well.  I appreciate the serenity of getting into a creative space and escaping from the world for moments at a time.  My love for and commitment to teaching and sharing art is born of a silver lining.

Monday, February 25, 2013