I straight-up asked a good friend of mine what it’s like being “famous.” His response was telling:
You feel tempted and challenged to be always on.
My immediate thought was something to the affect of “that sucks,” but a more interesting thing crossed my mind: I realized how similar this is to being constantly connected in the web space; the temptation or feeling of being “always on.”
Being famous is one thing, being famous on the internet is another. I think they complement each other nicely (and dangerously). It’s honestly not too hard to become famous on the internet; all you need to do is be “always on” or “always online” to achieve it to varying degrees.
My prayer today is for all of us who struggle with pride and being famous, in whatever sphere that may be, and that our “fame” is found in the right context and place. Especially today, when freedom is on everyone’s mind, I pray that we can be free from the bondages of pride and fame, either in the real or online.
Fame, either virtual or real, can enslave us so quickly if we’re not being careful and aware. “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.”
[Image from CGuille]
John Dyer says
amen.
Oh, and "first post" – I'm awesome!
human3rror says
YOU ARE AWESOME! AND HAWT!
Lee Hoover says
Excellent post, and a very important message for many today, especially with social networking sites like Twitter where many can get trapped in the desire for more friends, more friends, more friends. Thanks for the post!
human3rror says
sure thing lee! it can be a very real struggle for some, myself included.
GodsMac says
The desire to be heard / followed is challenging. It always amazes me when I see the impact famous people make, and then over time see how quickly they are forgotten about. Like people will be mourning the loss of Michael Jackson in 6 months….
Without making Jesus famous, making ourselves or even other people famous will be a loss. Temporary fame sucks.
human3rror says
agreed. what a waste of life it is to be famous for yourself.
shaunking says
I am so glad to have famous friends like you John 🙂
Really though – awesome post that made me think man. Hope you're doing well.
human3rror says
thank shaun! hope you're having a great weekend and holiday!
Shannon_Olson says
Thanks for the post. It is a constant struggle and I keep praying that God will help me catch myself when I want fame for me and not for Him. I love Isaiah 26:8: Yes, LORD, walking in the way of your laws, we wait for you; your name and renown are the desire of our hearts.
human3rror says
thanks for this!