God Grew Tired of Us

When I watch a movie it is usually for escape, entertainment, or just to see what all of the hype is about. The movies I have seen lately have not been very impressive: Poseidon was ridiculous, 27 Dresses was forgettable, and Balls of Fury was practically unwatchable. However, last night I watched a film that was absolutely gripping, educational and happened to be a National Geographic documentary. God Grew Tired of Us was the best thing I have seen in a very long time.

Can you imagine fleeing through the desert of your war-torn country of Sudan as a young boy, only to end up in a camp for refugees in Kenya? Can you imagine the incredible sense of responsibility you might have if you were chosen to move to America to get a job and learn to be self-sufficient? This 2006 film helps the viewer to learn the struggle, the culture, and the discoveries of the "Lost Boys of Sudan". What was so striking is how the viewer can see America through the eyes of these young men. The first time they experience airline food. The first time they see a redheaded person. Their first trip to a grocery store. It actually made me a little embarrassed by all of the material things we have in this country. There are so many things we take for granted.

These young men value so much. They value their culture, their families (many have had loved ones killed or lost during the war), community, hard work, and their faith in the Lord. They ask why people in America are so unfriendly. They ask what Santa Clause and Christmas trees have to do with the birth of Jesus. They ask why Americans work so much that they don't have time to spend with their families. They are grateful for their jobs flipping burgers at McDonald's or packing gaskets in a factory. It really puts things in perspective.

I realize that I have NO reason to complain about my life. It has truly been good.