In my last post I talked about “empty nothings” and having nothing to say. Part of that comes from being a vacuum internally, of having nothing to say because there is nothing inside. But there is another type of “empty nothings” that we can all be guilty of. The following is from Plugged In and I include it not as a judgment against the young lady but to make a point (which follows the article).
Miley Cyrus, for her part, continues to send mixed messages. She keeps talking about being a role model to younger girls, in spite of recent controversial pictures. “I don’t want to dwell on the negative,” she told TV Guide. “I want to be a positive role model. … I feel empowered when I see my face on a T-shirt. A girl wouldn’t be wearing a shirt with me on it just because she liked my show. She must look up to me.” Cyrus also said she believes sexual purity is a good thing. “Even at my age, a lot of girls are starting to fall, and I think if [staying a virgin] is a commitment girls can make, that’s great.” Muddying those waters, however, is her stated desire to “do a younger, cleaner version of Sex and the City.” Cyrus also said that talking about her religious convictions has likely placed her under greater scrutiny. “The more you discuss your religious views,” she said, “the more you set yourself up for criticism when you do something wrong.” [TV Guide, 7/28/08]
QUOTE: “Just how the Hannah Montana actress plans to pull off a younger and cleaner version of a show about a quartet of girlfriends who share their kinkiest relationship details isn’t quite clear, but don’t count on her to clear it up.” —MSNBC contributor Ree Hines, responding to Miley Cyrus’ TV Guide interview [msnbc.com, 7/15/08]
Please understand first that I am not making a judgment on Miss Cyrus or her parents, although I do have some thoughts on both. I don’t listen to her music for several reasons, the main one being it is not my style. I like Rock. But the more serious issue I see is the whole credibility thing. I face this on a constant basis. Do I have the credibility to share the message of Jesus with the people I come in contact with? Or am I just giving them “empty nothings”? The way I see it, I can tell someone something if I have credibility with them. How can I tell them about Jesus if my relationship is stunted? How can I tell them I love them if I don’t give one rip about how they are doing? How can I talk to them about purity if I am sending them mixed messages?
What do you think? Am I off base? Am I being too critical of Miss Cyrus and myself? How are you feeling these days about your “witness” to others?
Thankfully, I am not a watcher or listener of Miley Cyrus. However, I have followed the "story of her life" over these past few months. She's 15. I keep reminding myself that. At 15, I was learning to drive and thought I would be the next starting 3rd baseman for the Baltimore Orioles! I had never kissed a girl at 15…so, I try not to be too hard on her.
Her parents, on the other hand, I have a problem with. Maybe I am being judgemental, I hope not, but it certainly appears they are milking her stardom for everything it is worth before her 15 minutes of fame is over and done with. Then, when they are questioned about the latest photo mishap or questionable video coming out, they remind us, "Well, please forgive her, she's only 15…"
That request for forgiveness only goes so far! At some point, it sure seems they are pushing the envelope to see how far people will let it go, and when the money starts drying up a little, it's "oh we are so sorry…"
There is a trail of destruction that seems to follow each of these kids, it seems like its mostly girls. And behind each of these girls, there seems to be some parents following close behind with their pockets full.
Miley Cirus is the first girl my daughter is following. I don't see any signs that she looks up to her, she thinks her show is funny. It still worries me though. Not because of her recent activities, but because she is human and she will continue to fail.
I don't think any of us could live up to the public scrutiny that these kids are subject to. That is why I am suspect of any parent who willingly allows their children to become actors, singers, etc…
Great attitude Steve! I am not a listener or watcher of Miley nor do I have tweens in my household who are. She is a child in a grown up world. I just pray that someone with some "smarts" (wisdom) will sit her down and remind her that "from whom much is given much is required." The pressure will also intensify. Just look at Brit and Lindsay and others. Even those who claim to be Christ-followers. Her parents, on the other hand, need to taken to the woodshed. Billy Ray ought to know better. But I am not her parents and I am not their guardian so we can only pray.
I agree Jim. I am so glad that my daughters are grown. 'Course we had our New Kids on the Block and others (mostly country)but we were spared the idol worship of these girls. I think one of the keys is for you, as parents, to be personally involved in their lives. Jenna needs to know (as do all tweens) that mom & dad love them and show it. You have a right to be concerned about them falling though…they (stars) are human just like us.
I would not want to live up to the public scrutiny frankly. When Josh Hamilton was hitting homeruns during the Derby a lot was made of his recovery and his Christian faith (and it should). He was very vocal. But I say pray for him because the media scrutiny will become even more intense as will the enemy's efforts.
Miley sends mixed signals. She gives the glory to God and then sends a seductive picture via cell phone. I pray the Holy Spirit will show her she can have an eternal impact on the world by her choices –hopefully positive.
Bill…check out SelahV's site…we are famous!
K: I agree. That is why she needs wise guidance and not be left to the wolves alone.
Steve: Cool! When do we start signing autographs? Actually, since you put me on to selahV's site I reckon I owe you a cut in what I get paid for being famous. What is 1/3 of nothing?
How about we go in together?
1/3 of nothing…hmmm…there are so many ways I would like to answer that, but since others might read this blog, I’ll pass…
Just remember me when you come into your kingdom!
I say, “Shame on her parents!” She is only 15 and should still be well protected under their wing of supervision. Is their a child you know of that could handle being headed to the billionaire’s circle without making some lop-sided decisions? It’s crazy!! I think her parent’s will continue to let her push the envelope in order to gain more fame. Her father called the practically nude photographs of her “beautiful.” I think that definitely sends a mixed message to Miley. Dad thinks it’s beautiful…parents of my fans think it’s inappropriate…young girls think it’s cool…and young boys–it’s probably scary what they are thinking.
I think there is probably 100% agreement on what you say kb. Mom & dad are sending mixed messages. As I responded to Steve: Billy Ray ought to know better. Miley may be an attractive young lady but she is still only 15 and still only a child who should be guided by godly parents. Mixed messages for sure and what the young boys are thinking…yeah, we don’t even want to go into that one.