Entertainment Column

Lil Wayne vs. Barack Obama: Are You A Role Model?

By Brittany Summers

     We live in a world where anything can happen at any given time. People tend to follow what they see being done and mimic the behaviors of those heading down a path of destruction. Is this what you want to do with your life? Let's take a look at those individuals who are influencing not only our lives, but the lives of the generations to follow.

     A role model is usually someone who sets a positive example for others to follow. Role models always put their best foot forward and constantly encourage others to do the same. How it seems that throughout time, this definition had changed. A role model has gone from a leader and innovator to a money-hungry rapper. There is nothing wrong with rapping; the problem is that children do not look beyond these individuals they see on television.

     For instance, Lil Wayne is one of today's biggest rappers and role models for young men. He is a multimillionaire with diamonds in his teeth and is always wearing the newest apparel. Many believe he is living the "perfect" life. However, there is much more to life than diamonds and selling records. He has at least four children, all by different women. Yes, he may have the means to care for all of them, but is this something that you would want from your child? Why not explain to the children that there is nothing wrong with the music industry, but they should also go to college and further their education. When the smoke clears and the dust settles, they need to have a backup plan, they need to understand that when the music career is over there is so much more to life that they can explore and become.

     Then there is the President of the United States Barack Obama who is an excellent role model. He is not only a role model for young men, but also young women. His life shows that any goal is achievable through hard work and dedication. Obama is what we should aspire to be one day. He sets the standard that all children and adults should try and reach and follow. Of course, being the President of the United States is not an easy job, but life is not always easy. He worked hard to better himself and to make a better life for his family and those around him. He is not a perfect person, but he is one that knows how to take care of business and the importance of giving back to the community.

     It is imperative that we inform the generations to follow and continue to remind ourselves what is important in life. We need to remember to follow our goals and encourage others to do the same. Yes it may be great to be in the entertainment industry for the moment, but that is not all that life consists of. Let's not forget to instill in the younger generations that they can d and be anything they desire. With hard work and dedication we can achieve anything.