Lifestyles

I have always been amazed by the various lifetstyles people live.  Although we are all considered human beings, all brought into the world through the same process, everyone consumes a lifestyle different from the individual standing next to them.  Some are born into money and fame, some are considered average middle-class, while some are raised in an unfortunate and under privileged environment.  Depending on genetic make-up and the success of ancesters, every person is categorized into societal groups.    Although I live comfortably and undeniably appreciate everything I have, I still tend to wonder what it would be like to be in someone else's shoes for a day, or maybe a week.  I am curious enough to sleep on the slum streets of cities to fully understand the everyday heartache a homeless individual experiences.  And if I was lucky enough, I would enjoy being pampered and spoiled to a level of extremity to endure the feeling of fame and fortune.

Just recently, I vacationed in Miami, Florida where the sun shines, the clubs roar till the wee hours of the morning, the alcohol pours, and the shiny beemers line the streets.  It felt as if I were in a different country.  As I walked the beach, entered luxurious hotels, danced at famous clubs, and feasted at Italian Bistros, I found myself easily transforming to the lifestyle Miami provided.  Although I did not hate it, I had to realize that that was not how I was raised and I probably could not feel comfortable for a long period of time being out of my element.  My pockets would also empty a bit too fast for my liking.

Me at the Delano in Miami where many famous parties take place.  A little awestruck!  

Influential Entertainment

This past weekend I met an artist by the name of Wiz Khalifa.  Many know him only because of his newest hit single, Black and Yellow.  Most people do not even know his name upfront until they are reminded by the tune, “black and yellow, black and yellow…everything I do, I do it big.”   As an intern at the MassMutual Center in Springfield, I have been given many opportunities to meet some of the latest and oldest icons of entertainment.  Saturday, February 19, 2011, Wiz was coming to perform in the Exhibition Hall where I would be assisting the Senior Event Manager in preparing for the sold out rap concert that night.  I was excited to meet Wiz face to face only because of his title as an upcoming star.  No matter who, it is always an overwhelming experience to communicate with someone of higher acknowledgement.  Unfortunately, how quickly my respect was lost for him shortly after the first informal hello. 

Khalifa and his crew emerged from their tour bus reeking of pot, resulting in them having a difficult time communicating with our accommodating staff.  Also, as I reviewed his list of needs, I was disappointed to see goods such as Trojan condoms and cigarettes.  Although a respected artist performing in front of a rather young audience, I became aware of his most prized priorities and intentions.  It made me evaluate how easily fans are influenced by artists and tricked into believing their lives are glamorous and easier than the “normal” lifestyle we live.    The world of entertainment today has such an empowering influence on our younger generation, depicting how people choose and prioritize their needs and wants.  It is starting to become clear of why our society deems the inappropriate to be acceptable.

Something's Watching Over Me, Like Sweet Serendipity

Sweet Serendipity by Lee DeeWyze

I like music that is uplifting and energizing.  Songs that speak of a message that relates to me forces me to evaluate my life.  Specifically, in this song, Lee sings about appreciating what he has.  He expresses that even when someone doesn't have the luxuries that others do, it is still possible to be happy and content.  Life throws obstacles your way leaving you with the option to fix the problem or let it be detrimental.  If you take the intiative to make changes for the better, you can find a way to land on your feet and move on.  There are many things in life that are too small to stress over.  At the end of the day, it's more important to be a strong individual that can tackle any obstacle than someone who holds grudges and can't let go.

Listening to this song helps me realize I am very fortunate.  There is no need to let the small things in life bring me down.  I have too much to be grateful for.  When I think of who I am, where I've come from, and where I am heading, I fall into a state of positivity and happiness.  I am strong!

Appreciate

As I continue to watch updated news reports on the chaos occurring in Egypt, I can't help but think about how most Americans take their lives for granted.  We go about our daily routines which are made easier through the use of technology, transportation and accessible funds, rarely considering what other individuals are struggling with in order to survive within their society.  Growing up in a country where freedom is all we know, it's difficult for us to understand what it is like to be governed in a totalitarian society, where higher authorities make decisions for you and limit your access to necessities such as money, food and education.

On a recent broadcast, Cairo's government banned access to ATM machines, revoking citizens from receiving money from their already limited accounts.  They restricted stores from preparing and providing too much food for customers coming in searching for resources to feed their families.  The use of technology devices was limited so people did not have the choice of spreading negative news to any outsiders.  These restrictions were put into affect due to the actions of most citizens who were rebelling against the government.  Their desire for a democracy and more freedom pushed them to insanity.  Their rebelling actions have lead to excessive violences that have resulted in thousands of injuries and several casualities.    While watching clips of these outbursts, I feel as if I am watching a movie.

Then I think about how a day in my life would plan out.  I wake up in a house of love, warmth, and care with every possible resource I need to be presentable and to start my day off on a good note.  I have a car that transports me to any location I choose, that is filled with gas and maintenanced regularly to ensure quality performance.  I receive an education at a private school that pays for half of my studies.  I have endless sources of technology that allow me to stay in contact with family and friends who reside in all corners of the country.  I have a job where I make enough income to service my wants and needs.  I can eat at any time of the day and anywhere I choose, whether that be at home or at a restaurant.

Now that doesn't sound so bad, does it?  Yet, on a daily basis, I still find reasons to complain because of something I don't have or something that did not go my way.  Seeing what is happening in Egypt and how citizens of the country are being treated, it makes me second think how I act.  I easily take for granted what I have.  I also become frustrated over little problems that could not possibly amount to what other people face in order to live another day.  I realize now that we are not promised the end of today, tomorrow or even next, so it is very important to appreciate every moment life throws at you.