Beyond the Screen: "Overcomer" - More than Just Another Movie

Last week I watched Overcomer, a powerful movie that explores identity, forgiveness, faith, and the courage to overcome life’s challenges through the journey of a high school coach and a determined cross-country runner. 

My test for a really great movie is whether I want to watch it again. Well, I have to rewatch this one. Why? Because it touched my heart so deeply, I went to bed thinking about it and woke up the next morning with an exceptionally long Gratitude list, filled with new people, places, and things the film brought to mind. 

I took my time journaling that morning. Thanks to my smartphone, I could list each actor and person who made the movie possible - from the visionary who conceived the idea to the crew who brought it to life. I also listed the blessons I gleaned from the story, including an inspirational social media post for the day. 

Without sharing too many details, Overcomer revealed a profound but often overlooked truth: Health and wellness are spiritual matters – one can “Be Well” even when the body is riddled with disease. The message was also a testament to the fact that our daily thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors determine whether we merely survive or thrive. 

As the final week of January 2026 comes to a close, I urge you to watch Overcomer and ask yourself: Is there anything you want to overcome this year?  If the answer is “yes,” remember this: You build your health one day at a time, and every single thing you do affects it, so overcoming old habits must be done the same way, one day at a time. If your answer is "no," Keep Living! 

Here’s another fact to keep in mind: Approximately 20% of longevity is dictated by genes. The remaining 80% is influenced by lifestyle choices. That means you have the power. So, this week, I’m sharing three small but transformative changes you can make to “Be Well," regardless of the circumstances: 

1) Change the way you think about health –what you consistently think about, you bring about. 

2) Change your beliefs about health – your health is your responsibility, not your doctor’s. Own it. 

3) Change the behaviors that lead to poor health outcomes – you’re the only one who can; no one else can do it for you. 

Are you ready to overcome old habits and make real lifestyle changes, but are not sure how to get moving? I’m here to guide you. Contact me at smallchange@myrtlerussell.com and let’s get started today. 

For additional wellness tips, subscribe to my small change Weekly Wellness Tips at https://www.myrtlerussell.com/contact-us. 

Overcome your obstacles, Be Well!