Giving Thanks for My Privacy

Celebrity news - it feeds the curiosity in all of us and in some measure makes us happy that we aren't experiencing the same types of problems that some celebrities are having. Not that all celebrity news is negative, but the juicier tidbits usually are, and there are plenty of those to go around.

Through the years I have often thought about the trade-offs that come with celebrity status. One name that comes to mind is Princess Diana, who seemed to be hounded day and night up until the moment of her death. In truth, I can't even envision what it would be like to live like that, but I do know that I would not be a happy camper walking in the same shoes that she wore.

This paragraph was in an article that was published yesterday about Elizabeth Taylor, who has been hospitalized for treatment of congestive heart failure:

"[Her spokeswoman, Sally] Morrison said it's unknown how long she might be in the hospital. She added that Taylor's family appreciated the support from fans, but asked for privacy to allow the medical team space to do its work."

Even at the age of 78, Elizabeth Taylor battles her illnesses while in the public eye and needs to have someone request privacy for her so that she can receive the health care she needs.

Now I realize that if one chooses to be in the movies, in politics, or in any high-profile position, the cameras will likely follow and document all things that pertain to your life. Most people who are celebrities have chosen that route, although their children and relatives who also are in the limelight may not have done the same.

There is no right or wrong about celebrity status. People work very hard to be good in the film industry, or to achieve whatever it is they are seeking. For many the loss of privacy may well be worth what they achieve in the process, and they wouldn't want it any other way.

And there are some entertainers and other persons of fame or wealth who seem able to maintain a large degree of privacy while achieving their goals. I give them credit for doing so - it must make their lives much more pleasant.

For me, however, I'm very glad that I'm anonymous to the whole wide world and I give thanks for my privacy - everything is so much simpler this way. I can go where I please without being photographed, dress the way I like when I'm out and about, and not have to weigh every single word to make sure it won't come back to haunt me.

All things considered, this writer is perfectly happy living a quiet, private life. I'll personally leave the fame to celebrities and enjoy going to a restaurant, theater, grocery store, etc. without bodyguards and without being sought after for my autograph. And when I'm ready to leave and return home, I'm thankful that I can do that without a trail of photographers behind me.

Today I'm giving thanks for my privacy. I consider it to be a true blessing!

Giving Thanks for My Children and Grandchildren
Giving Thanks for Caring Friends
Giving Thanks for My Freedom to Celebrate Christmas My Way

Sources: Personal experience, and Ephesians 5:20