The "Bubble"

Three Rivers is one of those shows that are on the "Bubble" ready to "pop", headed for the chopping block.  Once again, it's consistent with my general track record - most shows that I would watch typically get canceled.   Yes, this show had the disadvantage of having to compete with baseball playoffs and already popular shows.   And having a weekend timeslot meant that I would miss it because of something else I had to do.  Granted, it's not a fascinatingly amazing show; but, it has a lot of positive elements in it.  It also has a good cast, especially with Alex O'Loughlin as the lead.   And it's neat that the show raises awareness of organ donation.

In thinking about the competition for viewership these days, it reminds me that we do live in an entertainment media culture with a highly selective palate and a generally short attention span.  "Here today and gone tomorrow" seems to be an appropriate phrase to describe most shows.   Even some shows that were popular last season now find themselves caught in the "Bubble". 

Is this just a reflection of where we are in our fast-paced, fast-food, faddish culture?  When we look around, "loyalty", "long-term commitment", and "nice & relaxing" have become a rarity; for the culture seems to be always ready to move onto the next best thing when the current best thing no longer excites.

This gives an interesting perspective on the "Messages to the Suffering" Bible Study series.  In our culture, there tends to be a focus on pursuing enjoyment and pleasure, and avoiding suffering and difficulties.   This leads to that short-term mentality, where we just "escape" when the going gets tough.   And, it is true that this would prevent the development of proven character through the endurance and perseverance in trials.