Gran Torino's Poignant Theme Song

When I read in the course syllabus that I would be writing an analysis essay on the 2008 Clint Eastwood movie, "Gran Torino," I knew the movie would surely contain violence, guns, and obscene language--and I was right. But as the credits slowly rolled on my laptop's screen last night, the tears also rolled down my cheeks...I was deeply moved by this redemption story.  And just as surprising, the slow-moving, lyrical theme song moved me as well. 

Here are some of the words:

So tenderly your story is
nothing more than what you see
or what you've done or will become
standing strong do you belong
in your skin; just wondering

gentle now a tender breeze blows
whispers through the Gran Torino
whistling another tired song
engines humm and bitter dreams grow
a heart locked in a Gran Torino
it beats a lonely rhythm all night long

Written by: Clint Eastwood, Jamie Cullum, Kyle Eastwood and Michael Stevens.
Performed by: Jamie Cullum and Don Runner.

Gran Review Coming Soon...

 I'm not a fan of violence or abuse--verbal or nonverbal-- in movies.  Regardless, I will be watching this movie and giving my "review" later this week.  Stay tuned...This should be interesting.

The Eyes Have It

Some people believe it was Leonardi DaVinci who once said,
"The eyes are the window to the soul." 

Whether it was DaVinci or not, most people believe that the eyes tell us much about a person.  Eyes also communicate feelings with a single wink, stare, glance, or sneer.  There is no other nonverbal gesture that draws us in like the eyes do!

If a person is unable to "look you in the eyes," we assume that he/she is telling a lie.  If a teenager rolls their eyes, a parent immediately knows what that gesture means.  When a tear forms in the corner of the eye and gently rolls down your friend's cheek, you know what you've said in anger was hurtful and an apology is in order.  But a tear forming in the corner of the eye means something entirely different when a bride looks lovingly at the man she's always dreamed of, standing directly across from her, holding her hand as she says, "I do."

Eyes are tired, eyes are itchy, eyes are old and eyes are wide opened.  Eyes show desire, anger, fear, shock, intensity, and disbelief.  Eyes reveal deep, dark secrets, and look away when the pain is too much.  The human eyes certainly seem to channel our inner emotions...even when we try hard to not let the world see...

Next time you wish to communicate a certain thought or feeling, see if you can communicate with just a look...I bet you'll discover that your eyes have it...that special ability to communicate...your own, unique window to your soul.