of them. I felt strong, capable of taking on my problems. The
next day in school, I, “the hero,” started talking casually to
my classmates. It wasn’t hard at all. Making contact actually
felt surprisingly effortless. I forgot my shyness. At first I
almost could not believe that my classmates responded in a
friendly manner. Over time I got used to it and new friend-
ships developed.
I believe that this first motion picture and the subsequent
films I viewed about heroes and their challenges created an
important imprint on my young soul. They helped me develop
an adventurous spirit and the courage to take risks that sup-
ported me in my development.
After my first adventure with my grandfather I saw many
more movies that told stories of heroes. Some were ancient
Romans, some cowboys and Indians who fought with their
enemies or struggled with other big challenges and eventually
triumphed over them.
This early positive experience with the movies planted a
seed that continued to grow throughout my life. I have long
been a confirmed movie lover. That personal interest turned
professional after I began my career as a psychotherapist and
first learned about the technique of using movies as a tool for
psychological healing and personal growth.
E-Motion Picture Magic grew out of this personal and pro-
fessional interest. It is more than merely a guide to selecting a
film to improve your mood. It goes beyond discussion of psy-
chological theory and spiritual advice (though it includes a
good deal of both). It is intended to be very “hands-on,” a tool
for exploring and developing your inner life. Use the exercises
that appeal to you and save the rest. Perhaps you will feel like
doing them at another time.
To introduce the notion of the exercises I encourage you to
start with this one below. Contemplate the questions. While
you’re thinking about your answers, it might help to write
down your thoughts.
“The universe will reward
you for taking risks on its
behalf.”
Shakti GawainBasic Discoveries 9