A wintery morning settles over southeastern Ohio, the kind we know well by February. One to three inches of snow are expected today, and already the first flakes have begun their slow descent, falling to gather on my back porch, drifting across rooftops, softening every edge in my line of sight. It’s a familiar scene, yet it still carries its own quiet beauty. We’re under a winter weather advisory, which in our corner of the world often means another chance to watch the season do what it does best: remind us to pause and reflect.
Condolences
Our sincere condolences to Mark M. Dean and his family for the loss of their mother, Deborah Dean. We are thinking of you today and lifting you in prayer.
Only One Mother
Hundreds of stars in the pretty sky,
Hundreds of shells on the shore together,
Hundreds of birds that go singing by,
Hundreds of lambs in the sunny weather.
Hundreds of dewdrops to greet the dawn,
Hundreds of bees in the purple clover,
Hundreds of butterflies on the lawn,
But only one mother the wide world over.
Song Sung Blue
Last night we grew weary of watching the evening news and the repeated stories that raise eyebrows, create more questions than answers, and challenge common sense.
Instead of the news, we watched a movie, Song Sung Blue. I am a fan of Hugh Jackman and enjoy his films. Here’s my take on Song Sung Blue…
The chemistry between Kate Hudson (Claire) and Jackman (Mike) worked. I have heard Jackman sing (Les Misérables, The Greatest Show). The movie begins with Jackman playing guitar and singing at his AA meeting; a humble scene where Jackman, an expert portrayer, makes a good hook.
I had no idea Hudson could sing (but, I don’t know much about Hudson), and I first thought she was lip-singing. After a bit of online digging, I learned her father is Bill Hudson, who was once in a band, The Hudson Brothers. Her voice is a toss between Bette Midler and Patsy Cline.
Jackman’s hair was questionable and a bit of a distraction (I don’t know why). Something about the texture of it made me wince, but I suppose it’s true to Neil Diamond’s, an era-aesthetic style.
Based upon a true story, Song Sung Blue entertained. The acting was good and the storyline instilled integrity and ethics; Maddie became pregnant and found parents to adopt her baby, family relationships require intentional conversation, struggles can be overcome through resilient decisions and professional help.
It was a good movie, showcasing good morals. I liked what Jackman’s character said at the end of the movie, a profound statement to all of us…
“And
you know what, before I sing, I just want to tell you. We're all here doing the
best we can, right? Our very, very best. And if we can just look out for each
other and be strong and above all, be grateful, maybe we could turn things
around. We can make the world a better place. What do you say?” Mike played by Hugh
Jackman, Sung Song Blue, (2025 Universal Entertainment) (paraphrased).
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