You may already be aware that as a circuit we had a trip out to the cinema to watch the film ‘Penguin Lessons’. It was an amazing multi layered film and worked for me on many levels.
Overall, I was most affected by the way the penguin appeared to actively listen to the characters. Each of them seemed to seek him out when they needed to off load their worries and troubles – whether large or small. He engaged with eye to eye contact, silent but empathic. In fact, one of the stills from the film, used in publicity posters shows Steve Coogan in character sitting on a bench looking to be in conversation with the bird. His pose is reminiscent of the poses of President Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy as they sat opposite each other at the Pope’s funeral – now seen as possibly a turning point in their relationship.
This spoke to me of prayer. God is always there to listen; we just need to come to Him and open up. He is always accessible and willing. Though He goes further – He being all powerful can change things but the process of prayer changes us, the pray-ers too. By accepting we need help, by laying the situation out in front of Him may also help us see it in perspective and come to a solution. Also, if others ‘overhear’ as in the film, they may be aware and also be able to help us work through it or just walk alongside us through the issue.
It also made me want to be a good listener for others. To not jump to conclusions or judgement – to listen, be silent and just be there. It’s not easy. Our instinct is to fix things for others. The penguin couldn’t and maybe we shouldn’t. Sometimes all we can do is pray with and waddle alongside.