It is not normal for me to be watching television at 3 a.m. in Britain, but this year somehow the magnetism of the glitz and glamour of the 2010 Academy Awards in Hollywood captured my attention. Even though I live across the Atlantic Ocean, I was part of the 41.3 million viewers who watched this worldwide Oscar telecast.

The interaction of hosts Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin at times sparkled, and the supporting acts showed the stunning ability of dancers and musicians. But it was the comments made by those introducing the nominees and the acceptance speeches of the Oscar winners that surprised and pleased me.

Before each envelope was opened to reveal the winner in the major categories, other skilled actors spoke about one of the nominees, acknowledging some of their qualities and past achievements. The sincere accolades were not tinged with envy or sprinkled with jibes of professional jealousy.

Admiring the talents of others

As the winner was announced in a category, genuine recognition and support from the other nominees was evident—much like a group of friends would react rather than competitive rivals. The runners-up may have been disappointed—that is only human—but their focus was turned toward their successful peer.

I witnessed acceptance speeches that showed both excitement and humility rather than pride. They included acknowledgement of parents, other supporting actors or role models, and the winners often recognized other talented members of the crew who had helped lead to the award. And who can forget Sandra Bullock's question: "Did I really earn this, or did I just wear you all down?"

Pride or praise?

There is a skill to gracefully accepting an Oscar without being full of oneself or, to the other extreme, diminishing the effort that led to the award.

It was refreshing to see how certain biblical principles about giving and receiving praise were evident, and that is why I feel it was worth the loss of sleep:

• "Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; someone else, and not your own lips" (Proverbs 27:2, New International Version throughout).
• "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen" (Ephesians 4:29).
• "A man's pride brings him low, but a man of lowly spirit gains honor" (Proverbs 29:23).

How can we apply these principles to uplift others within our own families, congregations and work environment? What would the effect be on the atmosphere? These are important questions we should think about.

So many children grow up in families where emotional support and encouragement to improve is missing or negligible. To strive for higher achievement at school or in the workplace, or to struggle through times of trial and testing, we all need words that lift us up. Even listening to inspiring songs that touch our emotions is helpful. I'm always uplifted by the lyrics to "Wind Beneath My Wings."

Relating in a positive way

To be able to inspire and encourage, to praise and accept praise gracefully, shows a loving nature. Unselfish, humble and outgoing love builds others up and brings an environment that grows emotional peace and stability. The purest love is given to us by God to share with others.

Here's a short excerpt from one of our free publications, Making Life Work, from the chapter titled "Our Need for Love":

"Life's challenges are more easily managed when we have the support that loving relationships provide. The Bible confirmed this truth more than 3,000 years ago: ‘Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up' (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). It also tells us, ‘As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend' (Proverbs 27:17).

"The wisdom of the Bible and many assenting human voices tell us that people who lack affectionate ties with others find it difficult to make life work. The mutual giving and receiving that flow from personal relationships increase life's worth. God created us with the need to be connected to other people. These ties give significance and satisfaction to life."

This may be the one and only time I watch the Academy Awards live. It has shown me that even in the competitive world of the Oscars there are people whose character is commendable and an example to us all.

For more about successful relationships, see our booklet Making Life Work.