It has always been perplexing to me the infatuation that many have with celebrities, or rather the sense of kinship one might feel. But regardless of my personal sentiments, I sometimes worry about the ramifications of celebrity influence on romance in the lives of young Americans in high school, as well as the 18-24 age range. Most celebrities that become famous at a young age have been working in the business for years and have accumulated a fortune that affords a lifestyle only fit for the 1 percent.
It wasn’t troubling to see that Miley Cyrus and longtime boyfriend Liam Hemsworth were eager to have children. After 3 years and being in the financial position they’re in, it makes sense. What’s most troubling was the thought of all the young kids that still look at Miley as a role model.
The average American shouldn’t realistically have children at such a young age, between the ages of 18 and 22 you’re still in school or working. And 22-26 are a critical time for building your foundation and most importantly, it’s your most free time to discover yourself and the world around you. The freedom to do so is reduced considerably when the financial freedom is not in place.
Children should be deliberate, not accidental, they should be taken seriously, not lightly, and they should bring joy and not an underestimated burden. While we fantasize about our future families, we forget about our current reality and down play the rigors of parenting.
Of course we can bust our ass and be capable parents when we don’t have the finances, but while you’re imagining how happy you’d be with a little you, imagine how much better their life would be if you waited and got your shit just a little bit tighter to make their life that much better.
-John Conyers
