Along with the rest of America, I was immediately captivated by Susan Boyle’s inspiring performance on “Britain’s Got Talent.” Yet I am equally as dismayed at how quickly the discussion of Ms. Boyle’s extreme makeover has taken off.
What made the moment so special was not her singing as much as it was a worldwide audience’s reaction to it. We were able to drop our cynicism and delight in someone else’s dream being realized. The power of the moment is that we were transformed by her performance. Not that she, with her God-given talent, needs to be transformed. As one of the judges, Amanda, eloquently put it, “it was the biggest wake-up call.” I couldn’t agree more.
But was it really? It seems a real opportunity to discuss getting beyond the superficial is being lost, not to mention an opportunity to celebrate second chances in life. I know that’s what hit me the hardest in watching her performance. I think many of us carry around in us a spark of some hope or desire that has been almost snuffed out. Boyle is a beacon of hope that it is never too late to return to a hope deferred.
Boyle doesn’t need the makeover, we do.
posted April 20, 2009 at 12:54 pm
“Boyle doesn’t need the makeover, we do.”
Well said. Bravo.
posted April 20, 2009 at 2:23 pm
Isn’t is just like us humans to love someone just the way they are – and then want to change them.
posted April 20, 2009 at 5:10 pm
Individuals change to adapt to their careers. We see this everyday and it’s not a bad thing, it’s merely competition. We are instantly judged by our appearances, which is why the audience and judges were quick to laugh and judge Susan when she walked on the stage. Susan only requires little modern changes as she already possesses great character and charm with an amazing voice. With that combination, she will land a singing career without a doubt. You Go Susan!!!!
posted April 20, 2009 at 5:42 pm
All this from someone who suffered oxygen deprivation as an infant!
http://www.johnmaszka.com/whatchagotgirl.html
posted April 22, 2009 at 12:15 am
“not to mention an opportunity to celebrate second chances in life. I know that’s what hit me the hardest in watching her performance.” you just stole the words right out of my mouth. i am 47. i am so happy for Boyle.
posted April 23, 2009 at 4:12 am
I really agree with you. I blogged about this last week – in “Susan’s Beautiful!” and again last night in “Susan Boyle Mania: Susan’s first kiss”. I’m saddened by the media circus and its reflection of our society’s obsession with the skin-deep.
posted May 26, 2009 at 8:31 pm
Susan Boyle Semi final 24 May 2009 Britains Got Talent
posted May 27, 2009 at 10:10 am
Susan Boyle speaks to too much that is not a part of our media, the real fairy tale and not the media construct however hard the flacks are flogging her now. Even if the whole thing was plotted up in advance, it makes Boyle no less real. ALL CAPS TALENT RULES
Susan Boyle Semi final 24 May 2009 Britains Got Talent