A Nation of Voyeurs

Do you remember when you scraped your knee as a kid, and your mom told you not to pick at the scab? The scab, though ugly, indicated that the scar was healing. When it was completely healed it would fall off naturally by itself, without any pain associated with the original wound. Being a kid, you usually picked at the scab anyway, and then complained as a result of the pain you endured because of your actions.

I’m reminded of painful wounds everytime I hear the recounting of John Edwards’ extramarital affair.

A re-enactment of Edwards going into the men’s bathroom, with the National Enquirer reporter trying to get in.

PICK.

A panel of journalist’s waiting in judgement to discuss if Edwards told the whole truth or just 90% of the truth.

PICK.

Rush Limbaugh dares to draw a comparison between Elizabeth Edwards and Rielle Hunter as part of his commentary.

PICK. PICK. Blood is drawn this time.

Obviously, we cannot get enough of the salicious and intimate details concerning the misdeeds of a promising former senator and presidential candidate. I find it interesting, that our country holds dear (in theory) the most puritanical thoughts on sex and family values, yet reality shows filled with sexual conquests and foul language abound. Television shows aimed at the family hour leave little to the imagination. We have become a nation of voyeurs, preening, poking, examining, probing into the lives of the rich and famous. It has become a national sport, the stakes are just as high, and obtaining the winning photo, “friends” who will give up the most intimate details of your life, gain the “prize” in cash.

I am certain that after Mrs. Edwards delivered her statement to the press, about her knowledge of her husband’s affair, and her desire not to have the matter played out on the national stage, she thought that the picking of her scab would be over. Unfortunately, it was not. Can we allow her the opportunity to heal her wounds? For all of those campaign workers who feel betrayed by the former senator’s actions, I say get a grip! His wife’s feelings supercede any of yours, and as John and Elizabeth Edwards are private citizens now, they are not your concern.