by Paula Love

Created on: February 18, 2010

When you hear a celebrity name in the news the story that follows is often one of a negative nature. There is no shortage of stories about addiction, infidelity, abuse, and a myriad of other domestic, legal, or emotional issues. At first glance one would assume that the majority of American celebrities have a negative influence upon the public at large. But when the bigger picture is taken into account it becomes apparent that the media, not the celebrity community as a whole, is responsible for the proliferation of pessimism regarding celebrity life.

While there are no doubt a number of celebrities who fit the definition of a bad influence, there are far more who act as positive role models. Unfortunately, charity work, healthy long-term relationships, and peaceful optimism aren’t as newsworthy as substance-related foolishness, spousal abuse, and raucous, in-your-face cynicism. TMZ doesn’t much care that Pierce Brosnan supports UNICEF if Tiger Woods has a harem of mistresses and a wrecked SUV. If Britney Spears runs out and shaves her head again, Perez Hilton isn’t likely to blog about the efforts of Maggie Gyllenhaal to raise funds to help impoverished people. Until our society as a whole (or at least an overwhelming majority) demands more of the media, we will continue to see an abundance of stories on celebrity sensationalism rather than celebrity altruism.

However we do not need to rely on tabloid media for celebrity news. We are free to discover the abundance of optimistic and encouraging endeavors from star personalities on our own. Start with your favorite charity or organization and search Google for celebrity contributors to that organization. The website http://www.looktothestars.org/ is a terrific online resource to help you discover which public figures contribute to which charities.

Once you’ve identified a few celebrities who share your interest in specific causes, find out more about them. Visit their websites to find out what other organizations they support. Join the local chapter of that organization or, if necessary, start one of your own.  Buy their books or read their online biographies to uncover the stories of their own personal journeys. Use your money to support the charities you believe in and the media outlets that report quality information instead of scandalous behavior.

Most importantly, share your knowledge with others. When conversations turn to celebrity gossip, make sure your contributions are of a positive nature. Use your social networking profile to post links to uplifting stories and charitable organizations, and encourage friends and family members who are like-minded to become involved as well.

Celebrities are an influence on the general public only to the extent that we as a society allow. If we look for positive stories and events we will find them. It is up to us to direct our attention to those who influence through helpful and constructive methods.

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