About Me

My photo
I am a retired English teacher and department head, the mother of three grand mother of four, and have been married to the same man for 52 years. I subscribe to Dr. PM Forni's concept of Civility. I was born in South Philadelphia and grew up in the 'burbs. I love soft pretzels and cheesesteaks, the Phillies, the Eagles, and San Diego. I love being Mom, Aunt Kathy, Nona Kathy, and Teacher. I spend a lot of time in my gardens in the spring and summer, and in the winter I plan what I'm going to plant. I also am an avid reader and photographer.

Translator!

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Is There Medication For Narcissism? A Telethon?

I realize that in the scheme of things, our recent experience with Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines is not an important one; an annoyance, yes, but really nothing more.  We've made other accommodations on Holland America and will be getting our deposit back from RC (hitherto not to be named) shortly.
_________________________________________________________________________

According to an article I read in The Week concerning a study out of Stamford University, narcissism has a real and growing presence in our country.  This doesn't come as a surprise.  Everywhere we look we see evidence of the "It's all about me" generation.  That woman who after 16 hours of talking disturbingly loudly into her cell phone, pleas from fellow passengers, threats from conductors, was finally removed from the train and arrested could easily be the poster child for narcissism.  It was all about her.

Unfortunately, she'd have to make room for a host of others such as those appearing on The Maury Povich and Jerry Springer "shows" (and I use this term loosely).  I'm not a fan of these shows that appeal to the lowest common denominator in human life, but I have been subjected to them while at the gym (and have sweetly requested the channel be changed).  For what other possible reason but self aggrandizement could the guests on these shows that have absolutely no socially redeeming quality  appear before so many? Again, it's all about them... To hell with human dignity!

And don't even get me started on Anthony Weiner (the man needs to change his name) and the likes of John Edwards, Gary Hart, Arnold and countless others who need to flaunt their 'parts' in one way or another to make themselves known.  Clearly, it was all about them.  And then there's the Madoffs of this world...

14 comments:

Lena said...

I find Narcissism very interesting. It astounds me sometimes what people will do and how blind they are to the needs of others.

I hope this growing presence slows down and fades out...

Two Minute Takes said...

Glad that you are still going on your cruise (and getting your deposit back from RC) Hopefully your new carrier is much more adept in the area of quality customer service.
As for the main content of your post...very well said and I couldn't agree more!

Deb from WhatsInMyAttic said...

Now, this is a post that could open so many, many cans of worms! I'm all for a name change for you-know-who, too. I'm sick of seeing our public officials make fools of themselves, too. It's unsettling and...embarrassing, really. Funny how I feel embarrassed for them...but they don't feel embarrassed for themselves. Nuts!

Sally Wessely said...

I too am glad to hear you got your money back.

It there ever is something that cures narcissism, I sure do know a few people I would like to make sure get the treatment. I don't think they would be open to any treatment though because then the focus would not be on them.

Charlene said...

I would say it is all about "them" and their fragle egos in need of constant adulation if "we" the public we, didn't follow the reality shows that pander to the lowest class, no character actors who personally believe they are important only becauase they are popular.

Purple Flowers said...

Kath - I totally agree with you. I cannot tolerate those tv shows that focus on the...let's say low lifes in the world. And yet, season after season they return.

I am glad you were able to resolve the issue with your former cruise line. I have heard great compliments about Holland Cruise Lines. I am sure everything will work out just fine.

Anonymous said...

It's been going on forever but the instant media and presence of cameras everywhere combined with 24 hour news stations and the internet have only amplified what has always been around us. Doesn't make it any more acceptable, but just saying....

Di

I'm With Stupid said...

Social media in general is pretty narcissistic, but you should see the people on Tumblr!

- Jay

Bilbo said...

What? It ISN'T about me?? AARRGGHH!!

Forsythia said...

My secret pleasure is watching "Real Housewives of ..." Washington, DC, New Jersey, Beverly Hills, Orange County, New York City, Atlanta--it doesn't matter. It's Narcissists on Parade" and I love it. (Although it's beginning to get a bit old . . .)

Tracy said...

I have a hard time understanding one who is narcisitic; really cool word although I know I spelled it wrong. But I guess that is what makes the world go 'round...

I can't wait to hear of your cruise; my mom went on a cruise to Alaska and had a ball!

Kay said...

I agree with you 100%. I feel like we're seeing more and more of that kind of behavior lately.

I'm having problems with Princess Cruises right now. We have a party of four and they put my 81 year old mom and aunt on a different flight from my husband and me. It's ridiculous! We're now going to have to pay extra to be on the same flight.

Sweet Virginia Breeze said...

I can't stand to watch Jerry Springer or Maury. Why would anyone go on those shows and make such a complete fool of themselves?

Cloudia said...

We need humility - not humiliation of others!




Aloha from Waikiki


Comfort Spiral

><}}(°>


> < } } ( ° >

< ° ) } } > <