Doyle’s Half Dozen: Sony Pictures, Race Relations, Movies & More

by Chris Doyle | Dec 23, 2014

Greetings! Here’s my final Half Dozen for 2014. Merry Christmas! Enjoy the celebration of the Christ child, coming to earth to save His people from their sins (Matt. 1:21).

1. The most powerful movie critic

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reportedly is behind the threat of Sony Pictures cancelling its showing of the movie “The Interview.” When I first heard about this, I thought it was a joke. I thought this was some kind of Hitchcock-ian method to market this film.

I don’t really care about this movie. My silly response would be I wish Kim would dislike more movies that have been released. In fact, I thought about a regular feature for this blog column: “Movies I wish Kim Jong Un disapproved.” Two movies that immediately come to mind are “Hudson Hawk” and “The Talented Mr. Ripley.” Stay tuned to see if this comes to fruition.

Sony’s response is disgraceful. It seems to weaken the popular secular message of standing up to bullies. Trendy Americans are all about “hating haters,” but there doesn’t seem to be much backbone when an international threat comes by way of email.

Here’s what I think Christians can learn from this. Remember always to obey God rather than man (Acts 5:29), even in life-threatening situations. I realize this is about a silly movie that has no eternal bearings, but let this be a lesson on what not to do when it comes to threats against following Christ.

2. Still listening; still praying

I remain troubled by the continuance of the issue of race relations, specifically with the focus on the police and the black community. I cannot add anything to the latest killings of two New York policemen. But I will continue to say it is important to listen and to fervently pray.

Listen to those who are speaking since these horrible murders, and remember those who were only speaking on one side of the issue while remaining quiet with this latest ordeal. The credibility of such leaders should be evaluated. It’s one thing to promote political causes, but it’s another to sincerely desire resolution. Those who want to resolve are the leaders I trust and respect.

Such leaders were involved in an important discussion recently in Memphis. It involved various ethnic church leaders. You can read about it here.

A statement from this piece that personally challenged me is “You need relationships with minorities who don’t need you.” I am praying for God to help me with such relationships, to see how this can genuinely materialize in my own life.

3. The best movie ever?

This is my first of two topics involving Christian movie critic Phil Boatwright. Last week, he gave his argument for “It’s A Wonderful Life” as the best movie ever made.

When the American Film Institute released its original list of 100 best movies, the Jimmy Stewart flick ranked 11^th. “Citizen Kane” was considered the top film on the chart.

I like the point Boatwright is making. He doesn’t consider the technical or artistic aspects but purely on the inspirational message. To his defense, AFI did consider “It’s A Wonderful Life” as the most inspiring film of all time.

After reading his column, I watched this traditional Christmas movie last weekend. And I agree, it is amazing to see how our actions can impact others, especially when such actions turn others to Christ.

4. Boatwright breaks down ‘Unbroken’

Read this piece by Boatwright. I loved it.

I’ve already addressed this movie, and I’m looking forward to seeing it, hopefully this weekend. I know the movie falls short of telling the full story about Louis Zamperini and how his conversion to Christ is the reason for how he was able to forgive those who tortured him. The more I hear about the movie lacking such content, the more I am disappointed.

But consider this. Even when man falls short, God can still move. If God can use the actions of some of the heinous people ever to live (e.g. Luke 2:1) to fulfill His will, He can use a movie that limits the story of a man whose life changed when he heard the Gospel.

5. Defending Steven Adams

I am a biased Oklahoma City Thunder fan. There, I said it. So when one of the Thunder players is attacked, I naturally take the side of the Thunder player.

If you have followed the Thunder last season and the beginning of this current one, you may be aware of Steven Adams, the starting center for the Thunder, being involved in a series of opposing players getting ejected. Off the top of my head, I recall five separate incidences happening last year, where an opponent took offense to Adams’ style of play and responded physically to the 7-0 New Zealander.

Last week, a player for the Lakers was the latest to be involved in such confrontation. The Laker player did not care for a screen that Adams set against him and was caught shoving his forearm into Adams’ face and neck. The ejected player responded after the game saying Adams is “sneaky dirty.”

I see no evidence that Adams’ play is dirty. I believe he sets really hard screens and posts up his opponent in a harder manner than what may be expected. I’m sure it’s not fun to feel the forearm of a giant-sized Rugby player being shoved into your ribs, but this does not mean it’s a dirty move. However, most of the known emotional players in the league seem to take offense when Adams’ style of play affects them.

If Adams is such a dirty player, why doesn’t he retaliate when a glaring dirty reaction happens to him? If a player were intentionally trying to make a cheap shot, there usually is some emotion demonstrated after such provoking. Adams just stands there and takes the punch to the face. Again, I am biased, but to me he looks like he genuinely is surprised when there is retaliation.

And I admire Adams for not reacting. I know he is a tough player, but even the toughest athletes will defend themselves. As a Christian, I see this as a great example of turning the other cheek and demonstrating love for your enemies (Matt. 5:38-48).

6. Favorite Christmas lights

My final DHD note features my final Christmas list. I’m a huge fan of Christmas lights. Here’s a list of my favorites in the Oklahoma City area, past and present:

1. Downs Family Christmas – this is the best in the region, in my humble opinion. It’s located in the southeast part of Norman, so it’s a bit of a drive from North Oklahoma City, but I think it’s worth it. They were featured on ABC’s “The Great Christmas Light Fight” last year. Check out their website.
2. The Markwell Lights – a great drive through this neighborhood near Putnam City West High School. It’s impressive to see all the houses on this block of 2100 N. Markwell Ave. displaying lights synchronized to music.
3. The house on 19^th and Ollie – park in the lot that is cattycornered to this Victorian-styled home and watch the show.
4. Nichols Hills – after working Thunder home games, I veer away from the congestion on I-235 and have a cheery drive home through this established neighborhood.
5. Ski Island – this neighborhood no longer does Christmas lights, but I have many memories going through the curvy streets, looking at all the displays.

This week’s Doyle’s Half Dozen

by Chris Doyle | Dec 16, 2014

Greetings! Here’s another edition of Doyle’s Half Dozen. I welcome all feedback on the topics I cover this week.

1. Bedlam Hero Banished

It was less than a week after Tyreek Hill ran his pivotal 92-yard touchdown punt return in the Bedlam game that helped Oklahoma State snatch a 38-35 overtime victory against the Sooners when the freshman running back turned from a hero to a villain.

As reported in the Oklahoman Hill was arrested last Thursday, Dec. 11 for domestic abuse, accused of assaulting his pregnant girlfriend. Along with suffering from her own physical ailments, the girlfriend expressed concern for her unborn baby after telling police Hill had “punched her several times in the face and stomach” and caused other forms of physical abuse.

I have mentioned before in my blog “Two Takeaways from the Rice, Mixon Cases” that everybody is vulnerable. Dear sports fan, I share your interests, and this message is very much my own personal reminder. Be careful who your heroes are.

“…All humanity is grass, and all its goodness is like the flower of the field. The grass withers, the flowers fade when the breath of the Lord blows on them; indeed, the people are grass. The grass withers, the flowers fade, but the word of our God remains forever” (Isa. 40:6b-8).

2. Listening to Steven A. Smith

Last week, I was home at midday and was watching “First Take,” ESPN’s sports commentary show featuring Skip Bayless and Steven A. Smith. They were addressing the issue of the many NBA stars who were showing support of the black community by wearing shirts with the phrase “I Can’t Breathe” featured on the front, referencing the Eric Garner tragedy.

Steven A. shared a personal experience that he said happens fairly often in his life as an African American. Recently, he was driving his car and was pulled over by the police. As he said, this happens often, and every time it happens, he reacts the same way. He rolls down all the windows (because his windows are tinted); he places both hands on the steering wheel and looks straight ahead.

As the policeman approached Smith’s car, Steven A. asked him, “Is there a problem, officer?” According to Smith, the policeman responded in a rather harsh manner using some colorful language. Another policeman recognized Smith and told his partner who he was. After expressing his emotional rhetoric, the officer had a grimaced look and told Smith he could go.

Bayless listened to this story and was taken aback. I confess, I was too. Perhaps there is more to this story than Smith revealed, but I will take him at his word. He was matter of fact; he did not express a harsh remark about the officer. He said this is something he experiences often and responds the same way when he is pulled over. He rolls down all the windows, puts both hands on the wheel and looks straight ahead.

As I have shared before in my previous DHDs about the current issues involving police and the black community, my suggestions are to pray and listen. Consider my sharing of Steven A. Smith’s story as my way of saying that I am listening.

3. Thunder back in the playoff picture

Less than a month ago, the Oklahoma City Thunder had a 3-11 record. Doom and gloom had set in. The talking heads already were saying it was an impossible task for the Thunder to return to the NBA playoffs this year. They were calling for Coach Scott Brooks to be let go. There was no joy in Bricktown.

A few days later, Russell Westbrook returns to the lineup after recovering from his hand injury. The All-Star guard led the Thunder to a dominating performance over the New York Knicks. In the following week, NBA MVP Kevin Durant is back from his foot injury. With both of the floor leaders back, the Thunder have collected an 8-1 record. Now there’s talk of promoting Westbrook for MVP honors, and with the way he is playing, it is understandable, as the Thunder are considered to be the most feared 8^th seed in an early playoff picture.

My how quickly the world turns. It causes me to remember how fickle mankind can be. This is nothing new. Imagine how many were involved in the first observance of Palm Sunday, waving palm branches during Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. Yet the many who rejoiced in His coming could have also been a part of those who yelled “Crucify Him!” in the following days.

4. An observance of 12/13/14

I realize this is late. Last Saturday was a unique day in our modern day calendar structure. It was December 13, 2014. I join the many who are fascinated in trivial matters of the consecutive numbers that reflect the uniqueness of the actual date being 12/13/14, knowing it cannot happen again for another 100 years.

Though the fascination has come and gone, allow me to share some wisdom from Solomon, in honor of the uncommon calendar occurrence:

Eccl. 12:13-14 – “When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is fear God and keep His commands, because this is for all humanity. For God will bring every act to judgment, including every hidden thing, whether good or evil.”

5. Early exit numbers of Exodus: Gods and Kings

Last week, I suggested going to see the movie “Unbroken” (comes out Christmas Day) over the recently-release “Exodus: Gods and Kings.” The latest Old Testament account of Moses leading his people out of Egypt led the box office last weekend, but the numbers were not epic. The movie’s budget was reported to be $140 million, and the film drew less than $25 million in its opening weekend.

I did a Google search for reviews, and the critics of this movie are growing. From its unbiblical script to casting white actors to play ethnic roles, the movie is quite plagued. I remain confident in my thought that this movie should be “passed over.”

6. Five memorable Christmas gifts

Another list to end my DHD that reflects the season. Here’s my recollection of the five most memorable gifts that I either received, gave or remembered it being given to one of my family members during my childhood years.

1. Tiger the boxer – He was officially a gift to my brother Jon. I was in sixth grade. Jon was in third. That Christmas morning when the brindle pup came through the front door, Jon made a noticeable gasp, and his eyes got so big. This day was the beginning of many adventures Jon and I had with Tiger who gained a partner named Sam, a fawn boxer, about a month later when we thought we lost Tiger when he ran away. Tiger and Sam were priceless pets.
2. Legos – There were many Christmases when I would get Legos as a Christmas gift. I would spend hours building houses, ships, planes, neighborhoods, etc. with the various Lego kits I received.
3. Jon’s G.I. Joe aircraft carrier – This is the second of three references I make of my younger brother. Jon was obsessed with the G.I. Joe action figures and all of their accessories. But no accessory made a bigger impression than the six-foot long aircraft carrier. This thing was huge when it was all put together. And Jon had no place to put the thing except on his bed, so for the entire Christmas break that year, he slept down stairs on the coach while this enormous toy possessed his regular sleeping arrangement.
4. My Dopp kit – I know this doesn’t sound like a thrilling gift, but more than 20 years ago, Jon gave me a handy blue toiletry bag. In my years of working with college athletics, I did a lot of traveling. This dopp kit went with me everywhere, and it’s one of the most practical items I have ever used. To this day, I still use this same dopp kit. It’s hanging in my bathroom now, containing my grooming utensils.
5. The Discipline of Grace by Jerry Bridges – I gave this book to my dad one Christmas. Bridges was one of his favorite authors. He cherished this book, and even years later he would thank me for giving it to him.

Doyle’s Half Dozen — Second edition

by Chris Doyle | Dec 9, 2014

Greetings friends. The second edition of “DHD” is here. As explained last week, I will be giving weekly commentary to current topics with the intention of providing a Christian worldview, which also adheres to the slogan of Word Slingers, “Blogging with Jesus in mind.” Here’s a new half-dozen dish outs.

1. Further Ferguson Fallout

I’m still burdened about the response to the Ferguson, Mo. issue, as well as news involving the Eric Garner case, which involved another deadly outcome of an African American man who died as a result of a police officer choking him when extra action appeared necessary to many as Garner resisted arrest.

Now there are two jury rulings of no indictments for the policemen involved in such cases. I have no legal background, nor do I have any experience in the police force. As a common onlooker, I understand how it can be difficult to separate the cases, especially because of the timing they occurred. Heated emotions are running over.

My suggestions remain the same. Please keep praying and have a willing spirit to listen (Prov. 12:15).

One of the best dialogues on this topic occurred last Thursday, Dec. 4, between NBA commentators Kenny Smith and Charles Barkley on TNT. Washington Post’s Des Bieler gives a good synopsis on the exchange. Smith and Barkley were reasonable and represented the perspectives of police and the black community very well. Please be aware there is some phrasing that would be considered inappropriate.

Bearing in mind how often I don’t like Barkley’s criticisms about the Oklahoma City Thunder, I’ll give him a nod on what I think is a reasonable attempt to find resolution. And with Kenny too. I know these guys’ expertise is basketball, and I realize Barkley is taking some heat for his vernacular (i.e. “scumbags”), but I prefer what they shared compared to what is said by some politicians and civil rights spokespeople.

2. Douglass-Locust Grove Dilemma Part Deux

Boy what a mess! Last week, I talked about how I liked Oklahoman columnist Berry Tramel’s suggestion of Locust Grove offering to replay the last 63 seconds of the high school’s quarterfinal football game against Douglass High School. This was prompted by the result of a wrongly-enforced penalty by the game’s officiating crew, and I believe this is a reasonable correction for a unique situation.

Let me be clear. The premise was allowing Locust Grove the opportunity to demonstrate exceptional sportsmanship. I don’t think the whole game should be replayed, which was proposed at a special hearing by the OSSAA governing body. And I don’t agree with where this situation currently stands. No sporting event should be decided in the courts nor incite unnecessary involvement of politicians.

This has become a monster that has now trampled upon the whole 3A state playoffs. Now I believe the best character lesson to be implemented is for the Douglass and Locust Grove football teams to shake hands, say “Good game,” and move on.

3. Hunger Games makes “Mockeryjay” of Media

I saw the latest “Hunger Games” movie. It was fine, maybe a little too much drama than the previous two shows. I like my wife’s assessment. She said Katniss “didn’t shoot enough arrows.” However, the one she sent flying was in a really cool action scene.

What I found fascinating is the depiction of media involvement in this war with the Capitol. There’s dueling reports shown between the production crew filming Katniss being the “poster child” for the districts’ rebellion and the Capitol’s broadcast of interviewing Peeta, Katniss’ popular love interest, by the flashy host guy of the Hunger Games.

For years, people complain about the biasness of the media. I think this movie emphasizes how influential the media can be. I already mentioned in this edition of DHD two popular basketball commentators making an impression on my simple mind. There are multitudes of talking heads who cover sports, pop culture, politics and mainstream news, and whenever they make a point on a controversial subject, viewers swallow it up like Turkish delight and believe their view is golden.

Dear Christian, no matter who the charming personality may be, attempting to sway your support, always take the approach of the Bereans in Acts 17:10-12. Make sure you hold Scripture higher than messages promoting a high view of humanity.

4. Choose the War Vet movie over the ‘Bible’ movie

Christmas is a popular time for movies to be released in the movie theaters. Last week, “Exodus Gods and Kings” came out. This film has quite a bit of fanfare, considering it stars the latest Batman, Christian Bale, and is directed by action movie expert Ridley Scott. And of course, because we Christians LOVE any movie that refers to the Bible, we just have to go and support it.

Frankly, I’ve only read a few reviews about this movie. None gave a favorable rating. Also, I was greatly disappointed with the “Noah” movie (here’s my review) that came out earlier this year, so I’m skeptical about any other movie coming out, especially if it involves big time Hollywood personalities who seem to think that all the movie needs to be a hit with Christians is have some Biblical affiliation, regardless of accuracy.

So, instead of going to see “Exodus,” I would suggest going to see “Unbroken.” This is based on the true story of Louis Zamperini, an Olympic runner and World War II prisoner of war. A good friend of mine told me he read the book, same title as the movie, and considers it one of the best he’s ever read. My friend also is a retired Air Force officer and a faithful Christian man.

Zamperini was known for his Christian faith before he passed away in July this year. It was reported by Baptist Press that he made a profession of faith at a Billy Graham Crusade. This offers me great reflections, as my father became a Christian at a Billy Graham Crusade in 1963.

The movie is directed by Angelina Jolie, and there are reports that the popular actress does not reveal great details of Zamperini’s faith. His Christian conversion at the Billy Graham Crusade is said to be left out of the movie.

Reports also tell how much of an influence Zamperini made on Jolie. She has been said to be gushing about him and his life story. She said she stressed having the movie’s rating be PG-13 in order for it to be appropriate for her children to see.

So here’s my take. If you’re going to choose to see a movie this Christmas, take the one that at least implies Christian faith over the movie that blatantly denies its origin.

5. 46 revisited

Last month, I wrote about turning 46. It was a light-hearted piece about something I do every year, attempting to commemorate the number of my age with jersey numbers of famous athletes.

Since the number 46 is scarce in uniform selections, someone referred me to the 46^th Psalm. I’ve been doing a personal study on Psalm 46 in the last few weeks and using different translations.  Here’s some interesting discoveries.

“So we will not fear when earthquakes come…” Ps. 46:3a (NLT). I thought this is great encouragement for those of us living in Central Oklahoma, since we have been dealing with tremors over the past few years… and as recently as Sunday night (or maybe even more recent).

“Stop your fighting—and know that I am God…” Ps. 46:10a (HCSB).  Usually this verse starts out with “Be still” in some other versions. The “Be still” translation would make me think the Psalmist offers instructions of remaining calm and trusting the powerful Almighty God. However, after reading the “Stop your fighting” translation, I now think the aspect is emphasizing we involve ourselves in unnecessary battles.

Or maybe, even though we face unavoidable battles, in the end, God will be exalted. “…I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Ps. 46:10b. So be still, stop fighting and take time to remember God is in control.

6. Favorite Christmas Carols

Last week, I shared some of my favorite Christmas movies. This week, I give you some of my favorite songs that are commonly sung this time of year. I love the ones that make a strong, direct emphasis of the Gospel. And it makes me wonder whenever I hear famous singers who are not known to profess Christian faith if they can understand the powerful message they are singing.

1. Hark the Herald Angels Sing. I can’t get farther than “God and sinners reconciled.”
2. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen. “To save us all from Satan’s power when we were gone astray.” How can the pop band Bare Naked Ladies sing this song and also sing a song promoting evolution?
3. O Little Town of Bethleham. “Cast out our sin and enter in, Be born to us today.”
4. Joy to the World. “Let every heart prepare Him room… No more let sins and sorrows grow… He rules the world with truth and grace.” Jaci Greggs offers a great perspective of this popular song.
5. Silent Night. “With the dawn of redeeming grace.”

I know there are more Christmas Carol lyrics emphasizing the Gospel message. I welcome your contributions.

May God open more hearts to understanding these songs as they are sung so frequently this time of year.

Doyle’s Half-Dozen – Debut feature

by Chris Doyle | Dec 1, 2014

Greetings! This is the first appearance of a weekly column, which I give commentary on six timely social topics. I hope it will provide some extra thought to what the public is currently discussing, but my intention is to offer a Christian worldview. I welcome your feedback.

1. Ferguson Fallout

There is much that could be discussed since the ruling of the grand jury was reported last week, regarding Police Officer Darren Wilson’s shooting and killing Michael Brown in Ferguson, Mo. Ryan Polk offers a valid perspective in his piece “When The Fires Burn Out…Then What?”

Many public figures have offered their perspectives. St. Louis Rams football players attempted to show support of the Ferguson community. I suspect more news to come out this week and the days beyond, relating to this tragic incident.

I won’t offer anything new, but I do believe there are two things that onlookers can do. And when I say “onlookers,” I mean those who are not members of the Brown family and Ferguson residents.

1. Pray – Spend time lifting up those who have been affected by what happened Aug. 9. Pray for God to intervene, to bring peace and restoration, to let Himself be glorified even through this tragedy. God can do great and powerful things through this divisive ordeal that has the whole country in an uproar, but He wants us to ask Him.

2. Listen – “Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to others” (Prov. 12:15, NLT). This is a great verse to apply to everybody, regardless of viewpoint. Many people are angry because they have jumped to conclusions and are unwilling to listen to what others have to say. The ones who genuinely want to resolve this will objectively listen. Only then can progress begin.

2. Ray Rice’s Recent Result

I wrote about Ray Rice in September. The blog was titled “Two Takeaways from the Rice, Mixon Cases.”

Now that his indefinite suspension to play in the NFL is over, I have noticed many “talking heads” have spoken favorably for the running back. Some say he still may not be considered to play for a while, as the majority of NFL teams will avoid considering picking him up, but other commentators believe if Michael Vick could find redemption, Rice could too.

One thing I pointed out in my previous piece is how Rice was considered a role model and participated in many charitable events prior to his incident with his then-fiancé now-wife. Again, the lesson is everybody is vulnerable. And again, everybody can be reconciled.

3. Sadie’s Rising Star

Last week, I wrote about Sadie Robertson in “Good job, Sadie,” talking about her recent success on “Dancing With The Stars.” The 17-year-old reality TV star and outspoken Christian has had her own clothing line for a year, and more dresses are being released soon for Prom 2015.

Why do I care about high school prom? I don’t, but I do like the description of “daddy approved.” It gives the perspective that modesty in appearance can still be valued. I hope it sparks a trend.

Also consider these links to blogs on modest dress by Annie Corser: Talking Modesty: Who Wears Short Shorts? and Talking Modesty: Midsummer Mid-drift. Annie reminds readers that there is a heart issue behind every decision made, even when choosing a wardrobe.

4. Franklin Graham coming to OKC

Many know him as the son of the world-renowned evangelist Billy Graham. But Franklin Graham has demonstrated himself to be a Godly leader and a prominent speaker for the Gospel.

Next month he will be in the Oklahoma City area, speaking at the State Evangelism Conference, hosted by the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma. Graham will speak the first night of the two-day event, Jan. 26-27, at Del City, First Southern.

I believe the next generation needs great Christian leaders. Right now, they don’t seem to be prevalent. Could Graham be among those of the previous years who stirred our country that brought the Great Awakenings? Only time will tell, but if you have a chance to hear him while he is in OKC next month, I hope you will come and decide for yourself. A schedule and more information can be found on this post from The Baptist Messenger.

5. Locust Grove can leave a legacy

One of the big buzz stories in Oklahoma right now is the result of the Douglass-Locust Grove high school football playoff game. Last Friday night, the two 3A schools met in the state quarterfinals, and Locust Grove won as the result of an “improperly-enforced penalty” which erased the go-ahead touchdown by Douglass in the final minute of the game. The governing body, OSSAA, offered an apology for what happened but said the result will stand.

I read Berry Tramel’s column this morning, suggesting that Locust Grove should take the lead and offer to replay the final minute.

“This isn’t about who’s right,” wrote the Oklahoman sports columnist. “This is about what’s right. This is about freeing the Locust Grove players from a lifetime of what-ifs. Freeing them from the gnawing feeling of ill-gotten gain. Giving them the precious gift that there are more important things than finishing first and having the most toys. What an opportunity to show, instead of tell. What an opportunity to instill those life lessons.”

I think Tramel has a point. Mark off the penalty on the kickoff after awarding Douglass the touchdown, and allow Locust Grove the chance to win in those final 60 seconds.

“…while winning a state championship would be great for Locust Grove, even greater would be teaching a bunch of teen-agers that doing the right thing is never a wrong way to go,” wrote Tramel.

I love this comment. I think it goes along with what is said in I Pet. 2:15: “For it is God’s will that you, by doing good, silence the ignorance of foolish people.”

Granted, I realize my quoting this verse gives the impression I may calling those who support Douglass’ cause foolish. That is not my intention. Instead, consider how foolishness can grow from those who participate in such arguments over the result of this game. That is what will be silenced.

6. Favorite Christmas shows

Christmas is officially here. Many are well into the season and participating in the various traditions. I love this time of year, and ultimately I love what Christians are doing to acknowledge its original purpose, the celebration of the Christ child.

Movies and television shows that recognize the Christmas spirit are also popular to watch. I end the inaugural “Doyle’s Half Dozen” with my list of favorites:

• “A Charlie Brown Christmas” – No scene tops Linus reciting the Christmas story.
• “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” – Hearing the Grinch stealing the “roast beast” brings back childhood memories.
• “Miracle on 34^th Street” – I loved watching the friendship develop between Kris Kingle and Susan.
• “It’s a Wonderful Life” – I confess, I used to not like this movie. I guess because it seemed like it was on TV a thousand times during Christmastime. But it’s hard not to smile while watching Jimmy Stewart run through the town, showing exuberant joy and yelling “Merry Christmas you wonderful old Building and Loan!”
• “Elf” – Great lines from this movie. And probably the cleanest movie Will Ferrell will ever make.