I Could Win Survivor, Right?

by | May 24, 2011 | Adam's Blog

Ever watch a 13 year old Chinese boy hold the iron cross on the rings for 30 seconds and say to yourself, “I could do that”. Yeah, me too.

I somehow got interested in the last season of Survivor. My negative critique of redemption island, puzzle challenges, boring characters, a predictable tribal council, and a blow out by “Boston Rob” never stopped me from watching. Why?

Two reasons:
1. I like watching people who are good at things.
2. I like to imagine that given the right opportunity, I could do that.

The day after Boston Rob completed the “perfect” game of Survivor, I found myself fantasizing about being in his position.

Jeff Probst: “Adam Barcott has been the best competitor this show has ever seen. In fact I want to propose eternal friendship with this guy. The whole world should know that he is not only a ridiculous genius, but the funniest, coolest, and all around greatest person. I am a better person for just knowing him.” (something like that)

Me: “Yes, well I am just glad that Survivor has given me an appropriate showcase for my pure awesomeness.”

While your fantasy might center more on the million dollar prize, (we all have our issues) its all the same. Arriving at a public moment of acceptance, worth, validation. Your existence deserves reward.

I’m growing.
Instead of my usual 10 minute daydream, I stopped after the 2 minute set up.
I realized what I was doing. Reinforcing the idea that unless I win something, I am worthless.

I started thinking about real life and the people who think I matter.
My wife and kids who know that I am way better than “Boston Rob” or the incredible Chinese Kid. (My youngest daughter truly believes that I am a ninja. Shhhhh). But I need more. Once this thought process is ignited you inevitably get to thinking about God. What does God think about me? “For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba Father”. The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.” Romans 8:15-16 read the whole chapter if you have time.

The more I think about my worth to God, the less I fantasize about my temporary value to the world. Don’t get me wrong, I still like Survivor. I’m just moving on to real conversations.
Adam