I listen to the NPR podcast “Pop Culture Happy Hour” quite regularly. In one of this week’s episodes, the hosts discussed the people they are “pulling for” this year. They chose people in pop culture for whom they are especially hoping to do well in their career or in their personal lives.
One host is hoping that Mr. T (Remember the A-team? How about Rocky III?) has a comeback. Mr. T has been known for his encouraging words to youth with some admittedly-corny videos with such titles as “Be Somebody or Be Somebody’s Fool.” Sadly, he was replaced in the sequel to a voice role he had in the kids’ movie Cloudy and the Chance of Meatballs. Although I’m admittedly biased (my mother loved Mr. T), now that I think about it, I’d like to see him again too.
Another host is hoping that rap star Megan Thee Stallion takes some time off for her own well-being after a horrendous year in her personal life (including being shot by a former partner and then not believed as she told her story) and makes a glorious comeback. The host is hopeful Megan can overcome these obstacles and live into her potential.
A third host wants to see more of the actress Keyla Monterroso Mejia who was a guest on the TV show Curb Your Enthusiasm and recently had a guest role in the new hit comedy about public school teachers called Abbott Elementary. Mejia is a talented actor who hasn’t quite “made it” yet. I’m rooting for her too.
It struck me that it could be a powerful practice to think about (and pray for) the people – even strangers – for whom we wish the best.
Who are you pulling for?
In Christ,
Pastor Jen