I generally try to avoid writing about celebrities. I can’t really judge these two superstars I’m writing about. I’ve never sat with them for coffee. I don’t know their backgrounds and I don’t know their motives. But all I can write about is what I’ve seen.
In September 2009, I saw two celebrities interact on stage in an absolutely embarrassing moment. Most of us saw Kanye West interrupt Taylor Swift as she tried to accept an award. Since then, I’ve been following both of them.
I know both of them receive tons of criticism. Kanye says things people don’t like. Taylor dates guys people don’t like. And even though they’re celebrities, I know they hear the criticism and it likely hurts—quite a bit.
But I’ve seen the difference in both of their responses. I’ve seen who I’d like to be like.
Kanye, when he receives criticism, gets more blustery. He hails himself as a genius. He talks about his artistry. He tries to prove himself to the haters.
Then I’ve seen Taylor, who seems to receive the criticism then turn it back around in love for her fans. She turns those painful moments into gifts—songs and stories—that she shares with those who do love her.
Both are incredibly talented. (I’d argue Kanye has more in mere raw talent.) Both receive criticism. But one tries to manage his reputation; the other simply tries to love people.
I don’t know about you, but I’d rather be like Taylor. I’d rather turn criticism and hate into love for others. I don’t want to spend time trying to prove myself to others.
