In our time, the obsession with external polish and the craving for the attention of others have become a serious social problem. Showmanship has permeated our daily lives, disrupting traditional Armenian values such as modesty, honesty, and diligence.
People often prioritize appearance over internal substance. They are not satisfied with simply being good; they want to appear virtuous. This leads to the display of false luxury, even at the cost of great personal sacrifice.
The most striking example of this showmanship is found in weddings. Many strive to organize the “most lavish” ceremony. There has been a case where a family sold their house just to ensure their son’s wedding was extravagant. This is tragic, as what is lasting is sacrificed for what is fleeting.
This is not only a material issue but a moral one as well. When a person lives for the approval of others, they distance themselves from their inner truth. The New Testament warns that good deeds should be sincere, rather than performed for the sake of being seen by others.
The most dangerous aspect is the impact on the younger generation. If a young person sees that society values only glitter, they will strive for that as well. In such a case, knowledge and hard work become secondary.
We must reject hollow showmanship. Only then will we return to the values that have preserved our people. Life should be based not on appearing, but on truly being.
