Short tempered, impatient, cussing, pistol carrying and definitely quick to shoot, but yet, in time of need, the most caring person that anyone could ever have as a relative. Does that sound familiar? I am convinced that in one form or another, most people can relate to having such an individual in the family.
My mother (with the exception of carrying a pistol, cussing, and quick to shoot) was such a person in my family. Her choice of weapon was basically a shoe, knife, or whatever she could find in her hand at the time to throw.
I thought of these things as I watched the movie "Madea Goes to Jail." It is a delightful, fictional tale about a southern family, whose matriarch (Mabel Simmons, a.k.a. Madea) has had numerous encounters with the law enforcement of the county in which they live. The film begins with its main character being chased by the police on a highway. By the way, the news is covering the event, which is enabling people to see it as it is happening.
Madea's family and friends, along with the community, watch with mixed emotions concerning the elderly, dearly beloved, but crazed senior citizen as she tries to outwit the police officers and avoid being captured. Captivity, however, is inevitable and justice must be served. Mr. Tyler Perry, the director of this film, brilliantly brings to the attention of the viewer Madea's criminal past by showing photos of her down through the years. Present-day, Madea stands alone (dressed in an orange prison outfit) to face the consequents of her actions of disregard for authority.
Through the interweaving of each character and their individual stories in the film (the engaged interracial couple, prostitute, and seemingly successful assistant district attorney), producer, and writer of the film, Mr. Tyler Perry flawlessly and effortlessly displayed the power of forgiveness: this film is superbly written and a must see for anyone who's struggling with the challenges of life and perhaps seeking forgiveness.
