My husband and I recently watched the movie "Soul Surfer" based on the same-titled book by professional surfer Bethany Hamilton (AnnaSophia Robb).  We loved it although neither of us surf.  We learned a few surfing terms, such as "duck dive" and "thread a barrel."

The movie honestly portrays 13 year old Bethany's adjustment to an altered body and life after a tiger shark attack (off Kauai's North Shore) took her left arm and part of her surfboard.  We see Bethany struggle to surf and cut fruit with one arm and hand.

Her faith in God remained strong even as she questioned why this happened to her.  The courage she displayed in getting back on a surfboard (less than a month after the attack) and also competing is inspiring!  Bethany revealed a faith and a resiliency beyond her youth.

I admire greatly her parents (portrayed by Helen Hunt and Dennis Quaid) as they lovingly supported their daughter through uncharted waters for all of them. 

Because we watched it on DVD, we also saw the "Special Features" documentary about Bethany's life which showed her life before and after the shark attack that took her left arm.  I was encouraged by young Bethany's willingness to say "yes" to God's will for her life even though it was not what she would have planned.   I highly recommend the film and watching all of the "Special Features" if you like to know the story behind the movie.

To learn more about Bethany, visit her site at www.soulsurfer.com.

Have you seen the movie?  If so, what was your favorite scene or quote from the movie?

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