Principles for Life: By Design or By Default

Synopsis:
FLAMIN’ HOT is the inspiring true story of Richard Montañez (Jesse Garcia), who, as a Frito Lay janitor, disrupted the food industry by channeling his Mexican American heritage to turn Flamin’ Hot Cheetos from a snack into an iconic global pop culture phenomenon.

Streaming exclusively on Hulu and Disney+ beginning June 9

Director: Eva Longoria

Directed by the talented Eva Longoria in her directorial debut, Flamin’ Hot emerges as a remarkable work of art that artfully weaves together a tapestry of emotions and experiences, reminding us of five invaluable aspects of life that we should never forget:

Family is indeed important
Children are the most joyous part of life.
Never give up.
Life is all about choices.
The power of unification.

First and foremost, the film beautifully emphasizes the importance of family. Through its portrayal of family life and the inherent struggles within, Flamin’ Hot strikes a relatable chord, inviting audiences to
reflect on their experiences. It skillfully underscores the significance of familial bonds, showcasing how even during the loneliest moments, the support and love of one’s family can uplift and rejuvenate the spirit.

Additionally, the movie fearlessly tackles the theme of racism, offering an unflinchingly honest depiction of children’s challenges. This film kept the racism children experience ‘real’ and simultaneously highlighted parents’ crucial role in guiding their children through such adversity. Flamin’ Hot is a poignant reminder of the power of endurance, urging individuals to rise above the hurtful words and derogatory labels that society may impose. It reaffirms that every generation possesses unique strengths and contributions, inspiring audiences to take ownership of their life’s path and tirelessly strive for personal growth.

Moreover, the film portrays a profound friendship between the main character and a black foreman, illuminating the transformative power of genuine human connection. The sincere camaraderie shared between them transcends racial barriers, as they embrace each other as brothers and father figures.

Rather than succumbing to judgment, both protagonists seek to understand and empathize with one another’s plight, paving the way for a captivating exploration of unity and compassion. “Brother” was how the main character addressed the foreman. And the main character viewed him as a friend, a brother, and a father figure. Instead of seeking to judge, both sought to understand the plight of the other.

From start to finish, Flamin’ Hot is an absolute cinematic marvel. Its ability to evoke a myriad of emotions is unparalleled, leaving audiences moved to their core.

With its soul-stirring narrative and heartrending performances, it establishes itself as a must-see masterpiece that resonates long after the credits roll.

It was an absolutely wonderful movie; on a scale of 1 to 10, it was a soul-stirring, heart-moving 10.

Tina Smiley, Associate Editor for Black El Paso Voice, highly recommends Flamin’ Hot as a transformative cinematic experience that offers profound insights into the intricacies of life.

Prepare to be enthralled, enlightened, and ultimately moved by this remarkable piece of storytelling.

Tina Smiley-Overton

I am an evolving, fabulous work in progress, a timid soul engaging in a full human experience.

Tina Smiley-Overton is a 15-year public servant in the Federal Government. She holds master’s degrees in business administration and Environmental Management.
She is a native of Selma, Alabama and has extensively studied, written publications, and delivered presentations related to the 1965 Selma to Montgomery Voting Rights March. She has had extensive interviews and discussions with foot soldiers of the movement. Dr. Frederick D. Reese, Selma’s leader and one of Selma’s courageous 8 leaders was her life-long Pastor.
At the beginning of the 21st Century, she was recognized as a distinguished Poet. She is the first published Christian Poet to incorporate acronyms in poetry. She is currently working on elements of Haiku in nature pics.
She is married to Vaughn Overton (New York). She is the mother of Timorra Price-Rogo and Kirk Price II.

Life, living, and how we choose to live life is based on principles. Principles are universal concepts and are absolute truths. Principles are linear progressions from one level to the next; are within each individual at birth; are measured by maturity; and have four relative elements (person, time, place, and space).

As 2022 begins, PFL focus is ‘Alignment’. Many people think of car tires or the spine and a chiropractor when the word alignment is spoken. There are multiple basic examples of alignment, such as the letters of the alphabets; numbers from 0 to infinity; the planets of the universe in order from the sun; a straight line; etc. These inanimate (non-human) examples naturally flow in alignment.

Animate, specifically human beings, internally, our condition (mental state of being) do not naturally flow towards alignment. External factors impact our state of being. External factors such as unfair treatment, betrayal, anger, hate, jealousy, and envy etc. disrupts our alignment.

The human condition of being out of alignment is to live ‘By Default.’ Being out of alignment spiritually, mentally, emotionally, physically, and financially is expensive; it is a robbery of time and talent; can be expensive to correct; and creates serious problems. Out of alignment is exhibited in an individual’s thought, words, and deeds / habits.

Within alignment, there is rotation. Just as the earth remains in alignment in its’ role in the universe, by completing a 365-day rotation; The humanistic rotation is similar to a circular spiral going upwards in age. By Design: As we age, every 365 days, our consciousness craves to be heightened in awareness, in maturity. From age to age the experiences (whether positive or negative) impacts thought processing, maturity, and internal growth. Beginning with thought an individual expresses through word and responds through deeds / habits their inner inclinations. (Basically, thought = word = deed / habit = who I am and to whom I belong.)

By Design: To be in alignment REQUIRES overcoming the experiences of life’s ups, downs, highs, lows, achievements, defeats, advancements, setbacks, betrayals, and loyalty. To be in alignment EXPECTATIONS are personal growth, development, cooperation, and willingness to work with others. To be in alignment DEMANDS forgiveness strong enough to move on without holding grudges.

Alignment requires maintenance: As days become years and years become the past, in order to continue striving towards a higher conscience mark of maturity, we must evaluate our deeds/habits. If our deeds / habits are not producing peace and improving society, then a true reassessment of self is necessary. Change is by choice and reaching for alignment is self-motivated.

Alignment releases freedom, peace and joy. Individually we must be willing to strive towards our higher spiritual self. (It takes a lifetime of work. It is not easy. It is not accomplished overnight.) In order to do this, we must be willing to truthfully evaluate self, rest, restore, and reconcile to find balance.

Remember this…what is alignment without the even weight of balance on all sides?

Tina Smiley-Overton

I am an evolving, fabulous work in progress, a timid soul engaging in a full human experience.