Sunday, February 25, 2007

OLD DOGS, NEW TRICKS, AND OTHER MYTHS

I am sitting here watching the Academy Awards wondering when it happened. When did I get so old and so out of touch with contemporary culture?

I am listening to the presenters list actors, actresses, and movies that I did not know existed. It is not just that I haven't seen them-- I had no idea they were made, who starred in them, or what the plots might contain. I can say with some certainty that the only nominated films that I have seen are Cars and Happy Feet. One was nominated for best soundtrack and the other for animation. (I think...)

Previously, I have had opinions on the entries, favorite movies and stars, and could speak intelligently about the nominees. Not this year. Perhaps this is the year that will be the bell weather of my gradual (I hope) decline into oldness.

How can I hope to understand the diversity of cultures present in the world today if I cannot keep track of my own? What does this say about my involvement in the larger community? Am I going to be able to come up with acceptable sermon references and illustrations if the only movies I continue to see are in the children's category?

Maybe what I am witnessing is the diversity of cultures that have already made their way into the cultural mainstream of society. I notice that the presenters are a wonderful assortment of nationalities, native languages, and perspectives. Granted I don't know all their names, but they do look to represent a racial diversity that I do not remember from my childhood.

Maybe that is the way it happens. The old dogs sit on the couch watching the new dogs be praised for the glamorous and exiting performances. I know that the movies were exciting and the acting was enchanting because all these folks that I don't know keep telling me it is so.

It is late. I think I will go to bed and visit Blockbuster in the morning.