The other night a young Colorado girl poured her heart and soul into a song that was downright awful. Every judge hated it, including Simon who said that her performance "killed every cat in Denver." But she honestly thought she was fabulous.
If you've been on Facebook over the last few weeks, you've likely seen another example of this "self-confidence chasm": doppelgangers. In a nutshell, this involves changing your profile picture to that of a celebrity who you think looks like you. (Here's what my co-host Pam chose for me: it's the teacher from "Glee". Really?)
Some people have done a really good job. But, to be honest, I've seen more than a handful of pictures that actually made me laugh out loud. Friends of mine are actually comparing themselves to some of the most beautiful celebrities in the world: Jillian, the trainer from the Biggest Loser, Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon, Bruce Willis.
Wow. I know this is a game, but come on. What mirror are they looking in? And where do I get one?
Now maybe I'm just bitter because one of those celebrity look-a-like websites told me I looked like Nelson Mandela...while another said I was a dead ringer for Kate Moss. But its more than that.
I'm concerned that our society has created an entitled generation. A generation that genuinely believes they deserve a million dollar recording contract from American Idol...regardless of vocal talent. A generation that honestly thinks they are owed a starring role on television...despite an inability to act. A generation that legitimately believes that they look like Heidi Klum or Brad Pitt...elastic waistband and coke-bottle glasses notwithstanding.
Are we really so insecure with ourselves that we can't accept who God made us to be? Do we really think that our friends or family (or even complete strangers) will more lovingly accept us if we pretend to be talented or athletic or beautiful?
Mother Theresa's beauty wasn't found in her appearance. Billy Graham's worth can't be measured by his bank account. Princess Diana's value wasn't in what she wore. These people accepted who they were (or weren't) and made a difference in the world anyway.
I guess that means being compared to Nelson Mandela isn't so bad after all.
Well Being I am an Entertainer, a Public Host Live for Several Prominent Shows, and a Spokes person on just about any moral principled thing or controversy that comes alone where I feel My speaking up can make a difference and I have at times. I think the only Profile Picture I would like to compare me to is MYSELF. Celebrity is in the hearts of those who speak up and make a difference by hard work and recognition of a need to do so. Although they picked a great close look for you here Tim. Seems to me you have the same things your counter part they have chosen does. Have faith in yourself My Friend First. The rest comes to the efforts YOU put out to make that difference. That is how a Celebrity are BORN... God Bless, CJae Hester
ReplyDeleteTim,
ReplyDeleteI don't believe it's an issue of self-confidence as much as one of narcissism. There is an interesting book that covers this very topic if it is on your mind....
"The Narcissism Epidemic: Living in the Age of Entitlement"
by Jean M. Twenge Ph.D., W. Keith Campbell Ph.D.
I was listening intently, while driving in to work today, as you read your blog entry. As you finished, I think I repeated the word 'entitlement' at least 1,000 times and I completed my drive and walked in to the school.
ReplyDeleteI am a high school teacher...
I am constantly coming home from work and reeling, trying to understand why there is no ownership in the work that many (NOT ALL) students produce. They work as quickly as they can, turn in half-baked projects, and expect a stellar grade. As I handed out grade sheets just a day ago, a student could not figure out WHY I gave him a C. He needed an A, and was determined that I change it immediately.
Your blog post shows exactly what I have been overlooking...entitlement. It all makes sense now. Society makes it look far too easy. It is time for me to switch some things up and help them realize the true beauty of people like Mother Teresa...and the hard work involved in being a respectable and giving citizen. (of course, all while attempting not to include religion in my delivery -- but we'll save that for another day)
This is an excellent commentary and I fully agree!
ReplyDeleteI agree with the above comments. Many of us are lacking in a sense of personal responsibility and passing that on to our children. I don't believe it's a conscious decision, but that is where society leads us, and we are often too busy to stop and think about what we believe and if we are living that belief. The one thing that comes to mind is a quote from Gandhi: "Be the change you wish to see in the world." It starts with us, every small act in which we live with gratitude and a sense of responsibility and an appreciation of the true beauty inside of all of us - God dwelling within.
ReplyDeleteAnne