The Celebrity Conception

"A savior was born in the town of Bethlehem. And his name will be Jesus." It is Christmas time. A season when many, Christian and non-Christian, reflect upon that famous birth in a far away manger that took place some two thousand years ago. A young couple, Joseph and Mary, had endured much criticism over the pregnant bride. In an era when stones were used to kill an unmarried woman with child, the two stoically followed their destiny to allow the "Immaculate Conception" that promised that God himself would live among us and show mankind the way to peace, humility, and eternal life.

But now, two millennia later, comes another conception that is overshadowing much of this season of warmth and hope. It is the story of a sixteen year old from the royal family of Spears who has found herself with child. The older princess in the family, Britney, has always had much of the spotlight upon herself. But she will have to dig deep within to forgive baby sister, Jamie Lynn, for becoming the brightest star in the modern constellation.

In a world lost in war, environmental damage, and distrust among the peoples, all have turned towards this unseemly story. The virginal Jamie Lynn, adored by young ladies who watch her popular "Zoey 101" show on Nickelodeon, are in danger of learning that teenagers actually do have sex and can get pregnant. Never mind that high schools throughout the nation have classes with young mothers enrolled; the pregnancy of the younger Spears is a dagger through the heart of American decency. Columnists and TV reporters are weighing in on the horrors of what Jamie Lynn has done and are taking pains to talk to ten year olds about the dangers of sex.

But the reason Britney is so jealous is that this story will turn quickly. Good old Jamie Lynn is from Lousiana and her nineteen year old partner, Casey Aldridge, is from a small town in Mississippi. Gee, he even likes to ride dirt bikes and go deer hunting. The two of them are just too picture perfect to hate for long. Why, Jamie is really a good soul as she bravely has rejected abortion and will bring the child to term.

Those in the media who are scorning the couple will follow every move in this swift moving story. They will comment on Jamie Lynn's stomach size and maternity clothing. And how many will be camped out at the hospital when the "Celebrity Conception" is fulfilled and the adorable little Spears child is shown to the world. What happens then? Will the child be stoned and exiled off in embarrassment. Or will a forgiving, celebrity starved nation, swoon over the precious bundle of joy. Then what message is the media and the country's parents sending to those who used to (and probably still secretly do) worship the young princess, Jamie Lynn Spears.