Culture

I realized the state of my life tonight as I had a very serious conversation with Halle about why Nick is my favorite Jonas brother. Even more alarming than the fact that I actually have a favorite Jonas brother is that I can substantiate my preference. Disney is running my life.
I thought back to our summer in New York- seeing Broadway plays and spending afternoons at MOMA, walking through Central Park and Chelsea Market..thinking at the time of all the culture my kids' were being exposed to. Yesterday we went to a local arts festival and they had painted the porta-pottys with famous artwork- classy, I know. We passed one with the Mona Lisa on it and Halle pointed out to her friend- "Look, it's Queen Latifah"...Alarming. The upside is it atleast rhymed with Mona Lisa. But seriously? Is this all I have taught my children? They will be adults and remember discussing Hannah Montana and NASCAR with their mother but have no idea who Michelangelo is.
Our culture shapes so much about us- but it's funny how little we step outside of it and look at what exactly it is making of us. It's not just my kids, but my own life. There are a million things competing for my time and attention- which of these will I let have the biggest voice in my life? Which will I let shape me? Or will I shape my culture? Will I be a force that has an effect on those around me for their betterment? Or will I let myself be entertained to death? It's hard to be counter-cultural and still be relevant. I wish I could find that balance as easily as I can pick my favorite Jo Bro. I think this will be a battle not won in a day but over a lifetime. I pray I keep my eyes and my focus on what has true value and don't settle for art on a porta-potty.