As I age, I change

by Michael Butler

There was a time when I wouldn't sit through a long orchestral performance, or a ballet. I did leave a performance of "The Nutcracker" in college well before it was over. There is only so many pirouettes one guy can take.

As you grow older, your tastes change. I will eat broccoli now. I'm still not a big fan of brussel sprouts though.

Is it that I'm getting more "cultured?" Maybe.

Recently, I was watching a football bowl game and scanning channels during commercial breaks. This was an early season subpar bowl, but I found myself watching the Kennedy Center Honors more than the football game.

Once upon a time, I would always choose sports over anything else. Now, I even watch HGTV.

As for the Kennedy Center Honors program, those in the performing arts field are recognized for "exemplary lifetime achievement." Among the honorees were; Neil Diamond, Meryl Streep and Yo Yo Ma.

Neil did give us "Sweet Caroline." I also like, "Forever in Blue Jeans" and "Heartlight" from the movie, E.T. He had a mountain of hits.

Yes, Meryl is probably the best actress this side of Five Points Station, and Yo Yo plays a mean cello, but every time I see an awards show, there they are.

How about the unsung heroes? There's got to be another great actor somewhere. In the movie "Nightshift," Henry Winkler's (The Fonz) boss at the morgue, said Barney Rubble was a great actor. I agree. Why hasn't he been recognized?

Is there not somebody who plays another instrument besides the cello who has exuded "exemplary lifetime achievement?" I know there not going to pick a kazoo player or tambourine shaker (the one instrument I play).

The fact that I even spent 15 minutes to write about this shows I'm making strides with my cultural diversity. There was a lady who once told me, "You need some culture." Thanks. I'm working on it.

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