An unexpected Role Model: Gaga

At the risk of causing a few of my friends/family to gasp and roll their eyes, I will first admit that my ipod contains music of ALL kinds, practically every genre. Artists in my current playlist range from Amy Grant, Stephen Curtis Chapman, Vince Gill, Barry White, The Doors, Michael Jackson, Lady Gaga, Prince, Cher, Elvis, to Sandi Patti. I have Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, and Patsy Cline too. This does not mean I endorse, emulate, or propagate any of their ideals – their music is simply pleasing to my ears…and my feet!


In the last few weeks, several articles and blog posts ascribing judgment on Lady Gaga have crossed my sight. It’s interesting to me that she is the target of so much animosity. Is she eccentric? Sure. Are some of her lyrics questionable? Absolutely. Would I want my daughters to dress like her? NO WAY!Let's face it though, if we were to listen only to music by perfect vocalists; read books written by infallible authors, and watch movies with virginal content – written, produced and performed by flawless people who have never gone through a “rough season”, made poor decisions, etc. – we’d be listening, reading and watching nothing. I wouldn’t even be able to listen to my own singing in the shower and certainly would not read my ramblings!


You know the old adage: “Don’t say something about someone unless you’ve got something nice to say.” Well, I believe that many of us could learn a lesson from Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, aka “Lady Gaga” (Lady Gaga is definitely easier to say/write!) So, here’s a positive perspective on a current, controversial figure in pop culture.


First , she is consistent. She hasn’t backed down due to rampant criticism or vicious attacks by various organizations and groups. When spectators and paparazzi show up on the Red Carpet – they can be assured a grandiose entrance, outrageous couture, an eccentric identity, boldly on display. Gaga has remained true to her identity, with steadfast resolve. It would be great if Christians could do the same, instead we find it easier to point out flaws in the character of others. Sometimes, it’s to take the attention off of our own sinful inadequacies.


Some of the same people who apply harsh judgment to Gaga (and others) are the same ones who will proclaim Christ in one breath – and then commit one of a multitude of sins in the next: drink to excess, adultery, slander, etc. Basically, at times, our behavior begs onlookers to scratch their chins in contemplation…”are they, or are they not – who they say they are?”


Sometimes, we are chameleons – changing our “colors” to blend in with the group we find ourselves commingling with. Authenticity, regardless of persecution, criticism, isolation, raised eyebrows, etc. is what I desire for myself, and my friends and family. Here’s an example: If you come to my house, you will be offered a glass of wine with dinner – regardless of where I know you from. It’s who we are at my house, and it’s just how we roll. If you don’t want to partake, no biggie – just a simple, polite, “no thank you” will do. (Changing colors so often must make one really weary!)


Secondly, Gaga’s determined to stick out. She’s creative and very outrageous. What about us as believers? Are we truly light in a dark world? Do we stick out among our friends who have not come to know the Lord? Do they see something “different” about us that they find attractive… wanting to better understand what we believe – and hopefully, desiring the gift of salvation for themselves? Have we figured out creative ways to share God’s love with others? Is our identity as a Christ follower evident in all that we say and do?


Most of us don’t walk the red carpet. We do go to the grocery store, post office, gym, etc. Would the friends we encounter at those places know, beyond a shadow of doubt that our Christian identity will be BOLDLY on display? Will they see fruit of the Spirit, in us? (No feathers or oversized eggs required!)


Are you, like me, a fan of any of the artists listed at the beginning of this post? A quick google search will reveal that most – but not all, have been arrested, involved in extramarital affairs, partaken illegal drugs, etc. (Interestingly, I’ve heard very little about those situations.)


So, Lady Gaga isn’t a perfect person….neither am I. She may have an amazing testimony one day – and I hope she’ll have everyone’s attention when she shares it.






T






*Note: A recent Barna study revealed that 37% of teenagers name (non-parental) relatives as the most influential role models in their lives. (11% indicated teachers and coaches; 9% - their friends; and pastors/religious leaders came in at 6%). The study purposefully, omitted “parents” as it was suspected most teens would have selected this response. These answers are reflective of influential persons in the lives of teens, outside of parental influences.


Perhaps, we should leverage the influence we have with our older children. Instead of completely “boycotting” certain music, movies, tv shows, etc., it seems logical to me that we could spend time with our teens, and consider some of today’s media influences “teachable moments”.