There is a story told about the movie Casablanca.  During the shoot, Humphrey Bogart was called to the studio to stand in the middle of the Rick’s Cafe set and nod.

He had no idea what the nod meant in the story. The director actually refused to supply the background to this moment, to give him his “motivation.)  Only later did he come to understand that Rick, a perceived neutral in the politics of World War II Northern Africa, was giving his O.K. for the band in the cafe to play the "Marseillaise."

Though Bogart did not know it, every relationship between characters with this movie was changed by the simple gesture of the nod.

As we all continue to make and refine resolutions to cause revolutions in this New Year, may we all make clear choices to offer “The Nod” which takes sides on behalf of those who feel disempowered, those who need the courage to stand for what is right, and those who need affirmation and supports as they strive to live as disciples.