Entertainment vs. Escapism

Baby Bub asked me what was the name of the tv show I was watching tonight. The same one I’ve been watching back to back episodes damn near every night for the last month or so. She’s asked me that question before and I’ve told her the answer each time. But apparently she wanted to make a point because when I told her it was called NYPD Blue, she told me I needed to go to NYPD Anonymous. In other words, she thinks I have a problem. She’s probably right.

It started a few months ago when I caught a mini marathon of the show on a Sunday afternoon. NYPD Blue was one of my favorite shows back in the day. I watched it from its debut through the series finale. The 15th precinct and its occupants were appointment viewing for me, as most of my favorite tv shows have always been. Watching that mini marathon sucked me right back into that gritty, realistic modern day universe of good vs. evil and all the gray in between. All the intensity of the storylines, the emotions it provoked, and the extreme sense of nostalgia felt terrific. I remember excitedly telling Dawny about catching the mini marathon and about the characters.

Then I went on about my life, occasionally catching a few episodes here and there on the weekends. Always stopping to watch them. About two months ago I discovered another channel that played back to back episodes from 8:00-10:00 pm every night, Sunday through Saturday. And slowly but surely I started watching it every night. Baby Bub would complain now and again, but I would retort back that she is addicted to a whole host of reality shows. That would shut her up.

I not sure what else to say about my latest obsession. Television has always been a part of my life. Too much television has definitely been a problem from time to time. What can I say? I’m an alcoholic and an addict. There is always a fine line between entertainment and escapism. Escapism is a part of what I do when I’m not doing great and its a part of what I do when I am doing great.

I also happen to get caught up in the NBA Playoffs this time of year. Especially when my team is playing this time of year, which they are. As long as I’m still showing up for the things I’m supposed to show up for, then it’s my right to choose my entertainment. Or even my escapism.

I still pray and meditate in the morning. I finally made it back to yoga classes. I’m walking again at work on my breaks. I’m making it to my meetings and fulfilling my service commitments. I’m writing my blogs. I’m getting together with my spiritual advisor and my therapist. I’m still moving forward and living my life.

Plus I think Baby Bub just wants to watch the big screen tv in the living room instead of her little rinky dink tv in her room.