A Moonman...

The MTV VMAs are a yearly spectacle, and have been since 1984. While I appreciate musical talent and good music, I think this awards show serves only as a window into the ever-increasing decadence and frivolity of the pop-culture world. It's a "one-stop shop" experience for the eye and ear, featuring no-holds-barred performances, self-indulgent (and uninformed) political and social commentary, and idolizing fans.

At this year's VMAs, it's no question what event caused a scandal. Two words: Kanye West. From the moment he interrupted Taylor Swift's acceptance speech for Video of the Year to loudly proclaim Beyonce the "real winner," it has caused a media upheaval, the likes of which we haven't seen since MJs untimely death. News stations and sites across the country made it the headlining story. Countless celebrities updated their Twitter accounts, loudly defaming Kanye for his actions. President Obama even took time away from his health care plan to call the rap artist a "jackass."

My response to all of this, instead of the typical shock and horror, is to ask, "who cares?" Yes, I do understand that Kanye's actions violated our propriety norms, and in that sense, I empathize with Taylor Swift for being the victim of his bad behavior. Her "moment" (as Beyonce coined it) was robbed from her. But what kind of a "moment" are we talking about? An occasion to gratefully reflect on a God-given talent? A chance to mention the many musical artists who influenced her? An opportunity to showcase her gift through a modest performance? No. An MTV Moonman Award is 100% about the "carnal self": how hot and desirable you are, and how well you paraded your sexuality throughout your latest music video. In other words, a Moonman defines shallow superficiality.

Rather obviously, this exhibits the MTV Awards as a navel-gazing free-for-all, which is exactly why I don't care about this supposed "scandal." It was a rude thing for Kanye to do. But his behavior was merely an outward reflection of the inner mindset of all the celebrities there: me, myself, and I. Don't forget what the show, in its entirety, is about: worship. Celebrities worshiping themselves for their celebrity. Yes, even Taylor Swift, in all of her victimized, "pity-me" sweetness.

My only concern regarding the VMAs is this: why do we need them? Self-worship should be BORING. It's the smallest, most abusive form of love. Reserve it all for self-indulgence and self-adoration and it immediately degrades its meaning to the lowest possible point. We were created to adore and worship God, so love is really about serving someone outside yourself. And that reality is almost completely ignored in our culture today.

Now, to answer my own question. Why do I think we "need" shows like the MTV VMAs? Simple. It's easy to pretend you're the center of your own created universe. Being held accountable to God? THAT'S hard.