Tonight I’m attending a lady’s night out function in Havasu—which will include dinner, cocktails, a fashion show and a short walk to the nearby theater to watch Fifty Shades of Grey.

I’m a little nervous. Oh, not about the movie—about going out in general. I’ve become a bit of a recluse these days, especially considering the fact that during the last eight months when I haven’t been in front of the computer, my hubby, Don and I were off to doctors’ appointments or the hospital. 2014 wasn’t a stellar year for our health.

We’re banking on a healthy 2015, and so far the prognoses looks good considering my recent news that I won’t need chemo.

This means it’s time to get back in the real world, and Don’s given me a nudge, telling me to go have fun with some lady friends.

I will be watching 50 Shades twice—because my mother wants to see it, and she won’t be going with me tonight. Mom read all three books, and is curious to see the movie. I started the first book, but life got in the way and never got back to it.

I find it interesting how some people are protesting the movie. As my daughter pointed out, she couldn’t remember any protests for movies like Saw. It seems the release of Fifty Shades has become something of a soap box for various groups.

On one side are those in the BDSM community who are insulted by the portrayal of their lifestyle. On the other side are advocates for victims of domestic violence who insist the movie promotes abuse. And then of course, are those who oppose anything remotely sexual.

Author Colleen Hoover mentioned on her Facebook page how some people claimed to be praying for her soul because she attended the movie’s viewing in New York. She happens to be friends with Fifty Shades author, E. L. James and even has a cute selfie of her and James on her private FB page.

I don’t think Colleen needs any help on her soul. Not long after becoming a bestselling author she was giving back, donating to charities, reaching out to others and staying grounded. She’s been an exemplary role model for those who find success overnight.

But back to the movie and those on their soap boxes.

For those in the BDSM lifestyle—get over yourselves. James never claimed to be writing a how-to for would-be doms and subs. She has an imagination and crafted a story—it is fiction. The story is hers. If you want to write a book that depicts “the correct” version of the BDSM lifestyle, write it.

For those who never read the book yet promote a boycott—really?? I get not wanting to watch a movie if it sounds like something you wouldn’t enjoy. But to actively protest something you haven’t personally watched, doesn’t seem quite right. Now if I heard puppies were killed during the making of the film, I would be all over the boycott.

Since I didn’t read the series I asked my mother this question: Do you think the Fifty Shades of Grey series promotes domestic violence? Mom (who is 86) laughed and said—no, not at all.

I’ll let you know how I liked the movie. Oh, and if you want to pray for my soul, go for it. I can use all the help I can get.

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