The 82nd Academy Awards: Surprisingly Graceful Oscars
A commentary by Peter Hawkins
British Isles United Church of God coordinator
Posted March 11, 2010
 It
is not normal for me to be watching television at 3 a.m. in Britain, but
this year somehow the magnetism of the glitz and glamour of the 2010 Academy
Awards in Hollywood captured my attention. Even though I live across the
Atlantic Ocean, I was part of the 41.3 million viewers who watched this
worldwide Oscar telecast.
The interaction of hosts Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin at times sparkled,
and the supporting acts showed the stunning ability of dancers and musicians.
But it was the comments made by those introducing the nominees and the
acceptance speeches of the Oscar winners that surprised and pleased
me.
Before each envelope was opened to reveal the winner in the major categories,
other skilled actors spoke about one of the nominees, acknowledging
some of their qualities and past achievements. The sincere accolades
were not tinged with envy or sprinkled with jibes of professional jealousy.
Admiring the talents of others
As the winner was announced in a category, genuine recognition and
support from the other nominees was evident—much like a group
of friends would react rather than competitive rivals. The runners-up
may have been disappointed—that is only human—but their
focus was turned toward their successful peer.
I witnessed acceptance speeches that showed both excitement and humility
rather than pride. They included acknowledgement of parents, other supporting
actors or role models, and the winners often recognized other talented
members of the crew who had helped lead to the award. And who can forget
Sandra Bullock's question: "Did I really earn this, or did
I just wear you all down?"
Pride or praise?
There is a skill to gracefully accepting an Oscar without being full
of oneself or, to the other extreme, diminishing the effort that led
to the award.
It was refreshing to see how certain biblical principles about giving
and receiving praise were evident, and that is why I feel it was worth
the loss of sleep:
- "Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; someone else,
and not your own lips" (Proverbs 27:2, New International Version
throughout).
- "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths,
but only what is helpful for building others up according to their
needs, that it may benefit those who listen" (Ephesians 4:29).
- "A man's pride brings him low, but a man of lowly spirit
gains honor" (Proverbs 29:23).
How can we apply these principles to uplift others within our own families,
congregations and work environment? What would the effect be on the
atmosphere? These are important questions we should think about.
So many children grow up in families where emotional support and encouragement
to improve is missing or negligible. To strive for higher achievement
at school or in the workplace, or to struggle through times of trial
and testing, we all need words that lift us up. Even listening to inspiring
songs that touch our emotions is helpful. I'm always uplifted
by the lyrics to "Wind Beneath My Wings."
Relating in a positive way
To be able to inspire and encourage, to praise and accept praise gracefully,
shows a loving nature. Unselfish, humble and outgoing love builds others
up and brings an environment that grows emotional peace and stability.
The purest love is given to us by God to share with others.
Here's a short excerpt from one of our free publications, Making
Life Work, from the chapter titled "Our
Need for Love":
"Life's challenges are more easily managed when we have
the support that loving relationships provide. The Bible confirmed this
truth more than 3,000 years ago: ‘Two are better than one, because
they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will
lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for
he has no one to help him up' (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). It also tells
us, ‘As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance
of his friend' (Proverbs 27:17).
"The wisdom of the Bible and many assenting human voices tell
us that people who lack affectionate ties with others find it difficult
to make life work. The mutual giving and receiving that flow from personal
relationships increase life's worth. God created us with the need
to be connected to other people. These ties give significance and satisfaction
to life."
This may be the one and only time I watch the Academy Awards live.
It has shown me that even in the competitive world of the Oscars there
are people whose character is commendable and an example to us all.
 For more about successful relationships, see our booklet Making
Life Work.
Related Resources
Abundant Fresh Fruit: To Serve God and Share With Others
We can become like God by having His Spirit dwelling in us. As we grow spiritually, we should see more and more evidence of that miracle—more and more "fruit of the Spirit." And with more and more fruit, there is more and more to give to others!
Ten Things You Can Say to Make Someone's Day
By offering some words of encouragement, we can help others face their present and future with courage!
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