'Kelly: I can’t sleep for X Factor worry,’ read the headline in one of the newspapers. A mature 30-year-old lady was having sleepless nights fretting about her onerous role as a judge in a talent contest for the terminally deluded.
I couldn’t help contrasting that with the experience of our parents and grandparents fighting for their lives, or worrying about loved ones bombed out of their homes, killed in action or tortured in the jungles of Burma.
Shopkeepers struggled to trade from burned out stores, postman fought their way across the rubble, parents sheltered their children from the relentless terror of aerial bombardment and emergency services risked their lives daily to save others without concern for health and safety. I experienced none of this but I was raised by a family who did and marvelled at their forbearance and resolve in times of crisis. I suspect we shall need some of that tenacity in the months ahead.
Our grandparents had far more important things on their agenda and rose to the challenge with incredible fortitude. They gained true perspective and a real understanding of the priorities of life.
Somewhere along the line in the peace and prosperity they created we lost our way. Petulant footballers became ‘heroes;’ Prada and Gucci worshipped as gods while greed and materialism replaced courage and sacrifice to the point where a wealthy 30-year-old frets away her life on the outcome of a meaningless talent show.
Perhaps the greatest misnomer of our generation is the ‘reality’ TV show. Reality is, however, planning a major come-back. When the true cost of grotesque greed finally starts to bite X Factor will seem as a risible politician’s promise. If you are worried your Christmas will not be the extravaganza of gifts and parties you envisioned visit an armed service rehabilitation centre and pray for some of their courage.
In the months ahead we’re going to need it.
