Day By Day© by Chris Muir.

January 26, 2007

Dreaming of American Idol

Now anyone who knows me can tell you that I am not an American Idol fan. Last year and the year before I watched some of the auditions and that was it. I didn't, and don't, want to get sucked up into the hype. Give me an episode of Forensic Files on Court TV any day!

But tonight, my oldest daughter and I entertained ourselves by going to YouTube and watching many of the Idol reject auditions that can be found there. I saw the young man whom Simon Cowell likened to a "bush baby," and one young lady who admitted that she was a terrible singer, but that with the help of the American Idol judges, she could become the first Idol who was unable to sing a note when she first auditioned. Then there was the girl who sang one of guest judge Jewel's songs, trying to sound exactly like Jewel...and failing miserably. (Jewel herself looked thoroughly embarrassed.) And what about the gal who imitated the Cowardly Lion and sang the Lion's song from the Wizard of Oz?

Some people on Idol accept the judges' decision gracefully. Others argue. And still others use profanity to let us know what they think. Like that's going to win hearts and change minds...

Why do these people put themselves through this? More importantly, why do we? (My daughter and I squirmed uncomfortably during more than one performance.)

I didn't see any of the contestants so far this year who are any good, although I am sure they are out there. But so many people who have absolutely no talent whatsoever go on this show! And so many of them say that they had family, friends, or co-workers urge them to try out. Either their cheerleaders are as tone deaf as they are, or they are sadistic b*stards, laughing at the failures that are broadcast for all of America to see.

The dream to become a pop star in America is very tempting. If I thought I had even half a chance, I might consider it. However: one, I'm too old for AI's age bracket, and two, my singing is just not up to par. Perhaps with some professional instruction (that I have no time or money for), who knows? But I know my limits. And I'm sure Simon would cut me off within the first few bars of whatever song I chose to sing. Paula would shake her head sympathetically. And Randy would say, "No, dog, the vocals just aren't there."

Part of the appeal of Idol, at least in the early stages, is seeing people make absolute fools of themselves. It's part of human nature to laugh at the expense of others. Rosie O'Donnell (who makes a living by deriding others, by the way) can complain all she likes about Simon Cowell's insults, but that is what people tune in to see. And everyone who auditions realizes they are taking the risk of having some of those barbs thrown at them. The entertainment world is a dog eat dog one. If you can't take the heat, you have no business being in the kitchen.

One of the things we are told as children is that we can do absolutely anything we want to do if we just want it enough. It's a lovely sentiment, but it simply isn't true. There are many things that sound great to me, but I know that there is no way I could possibly carry them off: being a model (too short), joining the Army (not enough stamina for boot camp), being a pro tennis player (I suck at tennis)...this is just a partial list! Even the things I am good at do not guarantee fame, fortune or a fabulous career. It's just the way life is.

Dreams are all well and good, but a bit of realism is important in those dreams. Instead of being told that we can do absolutely anything, we should be encouraged to follow a path based on our strengths, whatever they may be. Like you, I imagine, I have a few dreams. And perhaps maybe one or two of them may come true! But in the meantime, I try to live a life that's based in reality. It makes for less heartache and less need for Tums.

Unfortunately for some, getting caught up in the dream means crashing down to earth when the castle in the sky is shattered by the blunt honesty of people like Simon Cowell.

But it makes for great television ratings.

They're not going to lie to you!