Wednesday, June 2, 2010

My Big Fat Greek Wedding -- Inner Transformation


Yes, God is “El Roi” the God who sees. The thought of this may make you feel uncomfortable, but it need not. Ultimately, if knowing that you are seen sparks your transformation, it is well worth it.

If it is any consolation, obviously He has seen it all before. Nothing you have ever thought, said or done can scare Him away. No amount of shame or guilt could ever keep Him away. The only thing that would ever keep Him away, is if you refuse to receive Him.

Toula was ashamed that first day when Ian saw her. And so she begins to exert change in her life. She starts to take some classes. She learns how to apply make-up, and put contact lenses in. She even starts dressing differently. Soon she is seen in dresses and skirts made of floaty feminine fabrics, and in colors that include soft pinks, blues, and creams rather than sturdy, serviceable browns and grays. Her necklines change to delicate scoops and flattering v-necks that reveal her collarbone, and a lovely figure, we otherwise would never have known was there. She does her hair with curls, and pins it up off her face in a satisfying style. She experiments with changes to her appearance until she becomes comfortable with her new look.

Finally she stands in front of her mirror with her contact lenses in, her make-up on, and her hair done. She is wearing a dark pink, knee-length dress with a thinly-knit light pink sweater that has tiny buttons up the front and a v-neck that aligns perfectly with the neckline of her dress. She scrutinizes herself carefully.

Then we see it: her smile. For the very first time.

The changes that she makes are not just cosmetic. She ventures out to try new things, a Wonder-Bread sandwich, computer classes, and finally a new job at her aunt’s travel agency.

Of course, we silently cheer as we see the women of the family lead Gus to the conclusion that Toula must work there to help her aunt. They even have him thinking it was his idea!

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