By Michael Schindler

Understanding the issues that face our first responders and military families can often be difficult for those who haven’t actually “lived it.” Coming soon to theaters is a movie, “Courageous,” that does a great job of bringing some of those issues to the forefront.

“Courageous” takes a look into the lives of four men – all on the police force – and how they balance family, faith, issues of morality – even death. It blends humor with close-to-real-life issues and there are parts of the movie that will resonate with every viewer, whether you are a first responder or just an “ordinary family.”

What is refreshing is the movie tackles difficult issues without swearing, nudity or hard-core violence (I know, some of you are thinking that just isn’t possible). There is also a strong faith component that runs through the movie, but it isn’t so overt that one will feel uncomfortable if faith is absent.

The movie premieres Sept. 30 at the Landing Theaters in Renton, and through Sept. 23 you’ll have the opportunity to nominate a member of the first responder or military community for a pair of tickets and a chance at a weekend getaway. In addition, one couple will be awarded a couple’s getaway to The Old Hen Bed and Breakfast in North Bend, awarded first place for 2010 and 2011 Evening Magazine’s “The Best Northwest Escapes.”

Ticket winners will be notified Sept. 24. A live drawing for the grand prize getaway will be Sept. 30 at the Renton movie premiere.

For more information, visit Stronger Families. And take advantage of this opportunity.

Michael Schindler, Navy veteran, and president of Edmonds-based Operation Military Family, is a guest writer for several national publications, author of the book “Operation Military Family” and “The Military Wire” blog. He is also a popular keynote and workshop speaker who reaches thousands of service members and their families every year through workshops and seminars that include  “How to Battle-Ready Your Relationship” or “What Your Mother-in-Law Didn’t Tell You.”  He received the 2010 Outstanding Patriotic Service Award from the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs.