The stories we read, and movies we see, shape and influence us. They do more than prepare us for more interesting conversations - they help us to face real crises that we encounter in life.

If you enjoy stories about the interior struggle, bravery, heroism and love, and could use some good news regarding the 18th. century Anglo-Saxon Protestant male, then I have a movie for you to see. It is titled "Amazing Grace"; it is magnificent.

The movie portrays the political battle to abolish the British slave trade (the 200th anniversary of the first major step in the process was just celebrated on March 25). No need to hesitate if you are repulsed by violence and gore; the movie has none of it. It was released in February and just started playing here in Lewiston. I give it my highest commendation.

Go see this movie. And if you have teenagers, take them too. We may need them to display similar heroism someday.

Brian Rothfusz

Lewiston