Role Model

So here's a quote from a recent article in USA TODAY concerning Charlie Sheen.

"The dude is awesome," says Milton Crawford, a school psychologist from Texas. "He is the ultimate cool, James Deanish. He is living the lifestyle most of us wish we could. I respect him for standing up for what he feels is right."

Now the first thing I would want to point out is that James Dean died at the age of 24 in an auto accident (not the result of poor living).  He was a gifted actor but dying young is not a romantic ideal in real life.  Second, I would be concerned to know that my school psychologist longs to live a life of drug abuse, serial sexual relationships with suggestions of violence, and public disrespect to co-workers, bosses, and other 'trolls'.   Speaking personally, I don't wish I could live Charlie Sheen's life.  I find mine with more fulfillment that I have time for!  :)

Back in January I shared a teaching series at youth group where I asked the teens if they would rather be a source or a drain.  A source serves, gives of itself, a drain collects to itself and takes.  Drains aren't known for being clean and wonderful.  I asked where they would rather get a drink of water from, a source or a drain.      When you live your life for yourself, you are a drain.  Some drains are very nice, but the focus is still on themselves.  When we come into Christ, we can lose ourselves and allow Him to 'flow' through us, making us a source where we can serve others and allow them to be refreshed.

Final thought.  Everyone can stand up for what they feel is right.  The problem is, what you feel is right is not always right.  Better to find what is truly right and stand up for that.  Just a thought.