Me and Documentaries

There are many good things about being a freelance writer, the main thing is when I want to take a break, I can take a break from working. Right now, I'm watching When the Levees Broke a film created by Spike Lee. It is about the New Orleans residents after Katrina. (The following blog isn't about this documentary)

Normally I am not allowed to watch documentaries because I always get upset. When I get upset, my boyfriend has to deal with the mood so I allow for him to tell me, "Baby, you are not allowed to watch documentaries anymore." Notice that I said "allow."

There was once a time when I was passionate about everything. I wanted to change everything! I wanted to right all the wrongs in the world but something happens to people who notice all the wrong in the world...

They don't live. When you're consumed with all that is wrong, it's hard to smile. It's hard to enjoy life because you're thinking, "How can I be happy when there is SO much injustice in the world?!" I'm not saying that we should go around ignorant and happy but in general, we are more valuable to ourselves and others when we are balanced mentally and physically.

Now, without documentaries, I find myself being able to breath easily. Also, it allowed me to take a look at the types of documentaries that I used to watch and I came to a conclusion...

I don't appreciate my feelings being jerked around. You can teach me about your cause without trying to make me mad or sad.

I wonder, if it's even possible? Even commercials go out of their way to either make us very angry or sad. I saw a commercial that is created so we can save the children in poor areas. I watched as they gave a boy a picture of his dead parents and he cried. Wasn't it sad enough to know that this poor boy's parents died leaving him to take care of his younger brothers? Wasn't it sad enough to see where they lived? Wouldn't I want to help him out in based on what I already know or am I SO heartless that I need to see a visual of this 11 year old boy breaking down on screen before I pick up the phone and call?! Why do these people feel the need to toy with my emotions to earn my support for their cause?

The same goes for documentaries. This is why I cannot watch them any longer. My emotions are not available for some stranger to toy with like a canister of play dough.

Peace out,

Max