Many of us looked up at the Mick Jagger poster hanging next to the classroom clock. One classmate tentatively raised his hand and said, "You like the Rolling Stones."
"Wrong," Mr. D replied. "That isn't about me. How would you know that for sure?"
This scene popped across my mind as I drove home tonight. I was thinking about how some people seem to etch their identity from the TV shows they watch and the music they listen to.
I should state that I'm a passionate pop culture fan, who adores movies, and appreciate music. I consider many rock lyricists the writers of musical poetry.
One of the groups who's music has been a touchstone in my life has recently recorded an album. It has been surprising, since they had broken up over 20 years ago, and it really seemed that this would be unlikely to happen.
They are going on a short tour to a few smaller venues. Some fans are upset they are not going to their town, and others are wishing they were playing at bigger concert halls.
Why are these people dissatisfied? Rock stars (as well as actors and sports figures) do not OWE us anything. Why do people think they should have an expectation that celebrities should do this or that? Just because we buy a few albums doesn't mean that these talented folks have to go to every major metro area to play a show.
All art forms (whether it's music, a painting, or an acting performance) is a gift that the artist chooses to share with the world, with us. If this gift reaches out and touches our soul, shouldn't that be enough? Shouldn't we be grateful that we are a part of a great continuum? We are never really alone. If we look and listen, art does communicate this to us every day.
I made a decision a few years ago. I don't want to be defined by what movies I like, what music groups I admire. I want to be defined by who I am. Letting go of society's expectations,and embracing the qualities that make me uniquely me.
So, Mr. D, I get it. It took me 25 years, but I understand what you were trying to illustrate. [I sure hope other students are able to see the lesson you were sharing with us.]
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