I crossed over a cavernous divide last weekend as I fully embraced and enjoyed the first Iberia Film Festival. I don’t usually talk about such applicable newsy things in my time with God for this Coffee Talk column, but as I awoke Sunday morning I had to pause and consider his hand. 

Having worked 20 years professionally in the entertainment industry, there were a few accolades I didn’t get credit for having a hand in that might have taken my career into a higher sphere. I also became bitter and disliked film festivals because in other cities, I hoped to connect with filmmakers who shared my passions — only to be rejected as an “outsider.” I was skeptical about the Iberia Film Festival. I didn’t want that feeling in my hometown. I was pleasantly surprised.

I’ve carried vast expectations for more than four decades traversing different aspects of the entertainment world knowing with my interests would require a network of support from others. Interviewing different creative people in the Teche Area, I’ve believed God deposited me here to help build this new industry that would help our economy grow — and give creative people a new platform. After last weekend, I’m more hopeful than ever.

The change of heart had to be mine as I mingled almost gleefully at our local opening reception and again during the screenings. I wasn’t officially part of the “team” that did any part of the festival or in any way have a hand in pulling off the event. However, by reaching out to two friends, projects were submitted, and one was the winner of two awards. I was happy to be there sharing in the success and play my small role with press coverage.

However, it reminded me when the root of bitterness started growing in me. I encouraged the son of a legendary singer and actor to write a tribute TV-special honoring his father in celebration of 50 years as an entertainer. It took more than 18 months to convince him of “the hook” — the legendary artist, his father, was turning 70 years of age. It was not easy wearing down his son’s pride and apprehension, but as his former agent, potential manager and a friend, I could speak into his life — and did. 

When his ego broke to move forward with planning, he jumped ship from my efforts and took it elsewhere. We both missed out on the full blessing. I was ousted at the beginning and he was eventually pushed out of the creative process by the small thinking industry professionals he contracted with. My bitterness began in 1990 when the show became the number one program of that cable channel’s season — it could have been seen my millions more on NBC who verbalized regret at not having had the opportunity to produce the special. 

The best part about the Iberia Film Festival and what encouraged me into joy was the fact that the screenings started and ended with short films about faith, both were among the award-winners. Another very powerful piece on love included visuals and a song of faith. “Eskimo Kisses” were given generationally by the characters as a sign of love. Good entertainment all around.

Films are powerful. Music is powerful. Visuals are powerful — let’s face it, the arts have a way of expressing emotions that most of us have a hard time doing on a daily basis. 

The root of bitterness and envy can be very hard to overcome but so important to do so as explained in Ephesians 4:30-32. “And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” New International Version.

VICKY BRANTONis Teche Life editor of The Daily Iberian.