Lessons from Susan Boyle: Beware of Quick Judgements

Everyone is abuzz with talk of the beautiful voice heard on the 2009 program Britain's Got Talent. While her voice is magnificent and pure, the buzz comes not just from that, but from what everyone expected to hear. As she talked with the judges and told about her dream to become a superstar like Elaine Paige, you could see the audience smirking and Simon trying to contain a cheeky grin, then the music started. Nothing less than an angelic voice came from this slightly middle aged overweight individual.

Suddenly, with mouths agape, the audience was mesmerized by her vocals. The silence of the audience spoke as loudly as the full rich tones of her voice. When she finished, the faces were different and the people were changed. She was not what they expected. Because of that, she has become an overnight Internet wonder with links sent daily and articles galore. She represents the shame we bring ourselves when we judge people and their talent by their appearance.

The question stands, would she have been this popular had she looked different? Probably, but in a different way. She probably would have gotten her opportunity as a singer much earlier. Let's face it, pretty people usually do. I don't say that out of anger or jealousy because, I was given plenty of opportunities as a somewhat pretty person. I say that because it's a proven fact. People judge by other's first impressions. She is the epitome of how wrong we all can be. Because of her deceptive appearance, she now has the attention of people around the world and an opportunity to showcase her beautiful voice. In this case, her less than perfect appearance works for her. If you haven't already heard her voice on Britain's Got Talent, click here to see the show on YouTube video of her performing "I Dreamed A Dream" from Les Miserables

In an effort to fill the demands of the public, reporters are covering every aspect of her life and success. One could not call it an overnight success because she's been trying for years. Click here to listen to a song she recorded in 1999 for a charity album, "Cry Me A River". There were only 1000 copies pressed. I'm sure if someone owns one of the originals it would bring a fat price if sold, due to the hunger of the public to hear more. Her voice has a sound reminiscent of the past, pure and sweet and the type that's part of a movie score. Could she be the next, most unlikely "Bond Girl"? At this point, her voice could easily rival any of the singers that did scores for the movie, even though her appearance falls short.

I applaud Susan Boyle, and all those like her that never give up their dream. She and millions of unsung heroes daily continue to strive to achieve their dreams. Some, like Susan, get a showcase where people have to listen and forget their first impressions. The rest go on trying, but Susan Boyle gave them one more reason to believe it's possible.