FAME

Why I don’t want my kids to be "famous"!

Mom’s Light

I think the concept of fame is greatly abused in Western society.  We give the impression that fame will occur suddenly and include great wealth that should be wasted on huge homes, quarter of a million dollar cars and parties. This  is a dysfunctional concept. I am really struck by how many people want to be a part of  “reality” TV shows, and the reason they give is “Living Their Dream.”  I think that dream is to become famous and not to develop their artistry.

Let me explain what I mean.  We are making a major mistake by giving the impression that the only way to work in an artistic endeavor is to be famous for it. Our children get this message at an early age.  Many feel that they have to choose between their artistic talent (whether music, acting, dance or some visual art) and their academic talent.  It seems that in the early 20^th century and before, artistic endeavors were required as a part of being a refined individual. Playing the piano, singing or dancing was expected of everyone. We have gotten this idea that we must be a pharmacist or a rapper and not both. I think fame is the reason. If your child comes home and tells you he is starting a band or you find out he is very good at football, becoming a professional in that area is the goal. Let’s stop and think. I am not saying to have low expectation, but reality should not take the back seat either.

I know several people who make a living singing and are just local favorites. They make $60k maybe even $100K annually singing locally. If people thought about that option, how many of us would act on our desires to develop artistic talents? You could do a couple of gigs a month or a year. As a doctor by day, that may be enough to get fulfillment in the artistic area of your life.

People should not suppress their artistic talent for realities sake either. In my case, I learned during my residency that I was unhappy about suppressing my need for artistic expression. I joined the praise dance team at church and felt so alive. I did not need to quit my job and become a famous Hollywood actress to feel complete. A little church dance group did the trick. How many people suppress their desires to the point that they do something stupid to satisfy that craving? More than a few is the answer.

On the other spectrum, I love the story of  “Winnie” from the Wonder Years. I watched that show faithfully growing up. To think that she did not ignore her academic talent for the sake of acting fame is refreshing. She is a math genius and an actress.  Now, that is what I’m talking about. Maybe one day she will get $10 million a movie, but for now she is Ok with small roles in film or TV and with big roles on the math circuit. Danica is truly a modern woman. 

I do believe what the Bible says. Your gifts will make room for you and bring you before great men. If you are to be famous, so be it. You should not have to force the issue. 

People put their children in pageants, and push them on agents.  In the end, 9.5 times out of 10 they end up like Britney Spears, when great “success” comes. They are addicted to attention and unable to mentally handle that same attention. 

I have known only one really famous person. This individual is beautiful and talented beyond measure. Yet, now the clothes are getting shorter, the dancing raunchier, back biting is alleged and plastic surgery is presumed----WHY ?   FAME.  Do what they tell you to do to stay hot. This person is a multi-millionaire. At this point, she could decide to make music for it artistry. If she does not sale another record or break another record her success is in the history books.

We need to remember this. There is something extraordinary about the ordinary. When I saw my daughter’s heart vessel pulsate at 7 weeks, I knew everyone on this earth was a fascinating miracle, no fame needed. I have no idea how to get this concept to the mainstream, but I think it would be a wonderful world. People should explore their talents without feeling possessed by them. 

FLU SHOT

THE PHARMACIST’S CORNER

November marks a time to give thanks and get a flu shot. What is the infamous flu shot and who should get it? The flu shot or nasally administered vaccination protects us from the year’s major strains of the influenza virus. The inhaled vaccine does not contain mercury and is a live vaccine. It can be taken by most children 2 years of age and older; however, the flu shot is generally preferred in patients with chronic illnesses. Children may develop a fever, sore throat or nasal congestion (inhaled version only) within 24 hours of receiving an influenza vaccination. Other mild systemic symptoms like nausea, muscle aches and chills are also possible. October through December is the typical time frame that influenza vaccinations are administered; however, the CDC has approved early administration of the vaccination. Several agencies, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), recommend that all children ages 6 months through 18 years old receive an annual influenza vaccination. This does not always prevent the disease, but it does greatly decrease its severity and, very importantly, its transmission to others. It is especially important to talk to your physician about receiving the vaccination if your child has a chronic illness like asthma, juvenile arthritis, diabetes or seizure disorder. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to get all the information about the risks and benefits of getting your child vaccinated.

President Obama

I love the sound of that. Obama represents change and most importantly community. I am ready to roll up my sleeves and do the work necessary to turn this country around. Attention everyone SILLY SEASON is officially over. Change is coming from the ground up. We can take back our communities. This is the best of us. 

I saw Obama at a rally in Dallas during the primary season. What I liked most was his comments on education and turning the page of the old way of doing things. He encouraged people to read to their children, turn off video games, and participate in social service. I said to myself what kind of political speech is this. This was before he was winning. He won me over that day.

How many people will step out on their own and start a small business if they do not have to choose between health insurance and their God given calling? I think that aspect was greatly understated. I cannot wait. 

YES WE CAN!!