When
you mentioned 'Oprah's Army' in jest it got me thinking about how
many people follow Oprah and hang on her every word. She Oprah is a
very powerful women who's influence is unmatched in the woman’s
demographic.
Does
this qualify Oprah as a Spiritual Leader? Is there a 'church of
Oprah'?
If
you look at the numbers she certainly could be. In the past 25 years
millions of women have followed Oprah religiously, their admiration
bordering on worship. Through her magazines, T.V. Show, and global
network Oprah shares her experiences with others and people accept
her into their lives. She has successfully built a community based on
that shared experience.
A
religion requires ritual. Thousands of disciples flock from across
the country, and some from around the world to watch a taping of
her show just to be in her presence and to have her gifts bestowed
upon them. Millions more religiously tune in to watch the show from
their T.V.
If
you examine her 'self-improvement' message it is filled with
Christian values.
Charity and good nature towards others is a big part of this message.
Oprah is also responsible for getting American's to read more with
her book club as she has single handily made books best sellers.
Through her show and her
foundation Oprah gave and taught others how to be give
though the initiative such as the one in the aftermath of Katrina.
In
many cases Oprah lead by example going on the diets that she
recommended, a quality seen in many spiritual leaders. She
does make a lot of money but I feel she legitimately does what she
does for the cause and not the pay off.
Oprah
inspires and teaches people to strive to become the best version of
themselves selves. For many her show is more then just a television
program, it was a ministry of self betterment. Her willingness
share her life changed the lives of millions of people. She lead by
example and not command. You can can see the Christian way in what
she said and did.
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