ABOUT THIS BLOG

In Field Notes, NBC News will shed light on the stories that don't always make the headlines as well as offering analysis on the big and small stories of the day.

Regular contributors include NBC News correspondents, producers and staff based in bureaus across the country and on assignment.

Click here to read more about the journalists behind this blog.



When my daughter found Britney on my iPod...

Posted: Friday, January 18, 2008 10:59 AM

By Don Teague, NBC News Correspondent

DALLAS – I was driving my 15-year-old daughter, Rachael, to school the other day. 

"Do we have to listen to the news?" she asked, already switching the tuner from AM to FM. 

"No, you can change the channel," I answered, as if I had any actual say.

After 30 seconds of scanning every station, she remembered nobody plays music in the morning.

"Ugh," she said, digging in her backpack, "I forgot my iPod." 

So she scrolled through my iPod to see if by some miracle my musical tastes have changed. 

"Slightly Stoopid, ewww."

"G. Love, as if."

"The Cure, puh-leeze."

She kept scrolling.

"Anything but Linkin Park," I said, "not at 8:20 in the morning."

She suddenly stopped scrolling, and shot me what I can only call an "accusatory" look.

"What’s this?"

"What?"

She showed me my own iPod.

"THIS…Do you seriously have Britney Spears on your iPod?"

I tried to use my grownup voice.

"Yes.  It’s her new album. It’s surprisingly good."

"Dad," she said earnestly, "Britney Spears is not a good role model, she’s disgusting."

Before I could respond, Linkin Park began destroying my car speakers.

'Supporting a train wreck'
It could have just ended there, but it didn’t.  That night she waited until the whole family was together in the kitchen to bring it up again.

"Dad downloaded the new Britney Spears album," she said casually.

My 12-year-old daughter, Madison, stifled a laugh.

"You’re kidding," my wife said to me. I suddenly realized where Rachael got her "accusatory" look from. "Why would you give her our money?  You’re just supporting a train wreck."

I didn’t have an answer.

"That’s kind of harsh," I said, hoping that would be the end of it. 

But it wasn’t. For the past couple of weeks, I’ve been trying to answer that question for myself.  It’s literally kept me up at night.  

Why did I buy the Britney Spears album?
I should mention that I’ve never been a Britney Spears fan. When Rachael was nine years old, she begged me to take her to a concert.  I did…it was torture.

And it’s impossible to see anything positive in Spears’ personal life. There’s no need for me to go into the sordid details.  If you live in America, you already know about her alleged problems with substance abuse, all-night partying, driving disasters, marital strife and unstable behavior. Most importantly, you know her actions may have endangered her children. She has lost custody of both, and this week a judge suspended her visitation rights indefinitely. 

Britney Spears has no one to blame for any of this but herself. 

But is it really necessary to enjoy watching her self-destruct?

Hoping for a second chance
If most of us had a friend or family member in her situation, we’d be grief-stricken.  We would pray she gets help, or has a "moment of clarity" and realizes she’s putting herself in jeopardy. A family spokesperson last week publicly asked for Americans to pray for Britney. 

"I would really hope that that those who seek God for strength in their life would be interceding for this family," said Lou Taylor on the Today Show.

Instead, people are betting on whether Britney will overdose or die in a car accident.   There’s even a website offering a Sony Playstation 3 to the person who picks the date of Britney Spears' death. The paparazzi chase her around to capture every down-spiraling minute.

Have I seen the pictures?  Yep.  

Read the lurid details?  Sure.

Been morbidly entertained?  Yes.

Not anymore.

As a person of faith, I believe in second chances, and third, and fourth for that matter.  Britney Spears may not deserve it, but it’s not for me to decide.  Yeah, I’ll pray for Britney Spears, as naïve as that may sound to some of you, because her family asked.

So, in thinking about it I discovered the real reason I bought Britney Spears’ new album.  It’s a symbolic vote for a second chance.

Plus it’s got a beat you can dance to.

MAIN PAGE

Email this EMAIL THIS

Comments

I WISH HER THE BEST AND WILL PRAY FOR HER SOUL.FAR TO MANY PEOPLE WANT TO SET IN JUDGEMENT.

T,BEAR (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:33 PM)

I'm in my senior year of college, studying to become a psychologist.  I believe that yes, the deservers another chance... ONLY AFTER... she is FORCED to receieve treatment.  Her behavior in an average person would have already been admitted to a hospital program.  She needs professional help and NO ONE, not even her family, is making her get it.  The courts aren't even forcing her to get help.  The courts allow her skip court dates and continue on her path of destruction.  She does need to be prayed for but what she really needs is help.  Now.  

Sara, Juneau AK (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:34 PM)

April from Richmond: you mirrored my thoughts exactly! What does it say about the human race that some enjoy seeing others "thrown to the lions"? But there it is: many people do enjoy the suffering of others. I'll never understand why because like you said, Karma may come around and get THEM next. Let's just get down to it-people who enjoy this sad spectacle are just glad that it's someone else and not themselves. That applies to many when it comes to public suffering. Everyone's turn comes, remember that!

Lynn A. (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:35 PM)

She has never been a "normal person" She has never just had a "normal life" Since she was a child she has been in show biz. starting out in the mickey mouse club. NOw into the insecure woman constantly harrassed by the paparazzi... Im not defending her, adn i dont support her actions. But until we live through the things she deals with in her life, we are no one to judge.
She obviously needs to find normalcy and balance in her life. Even if that means taking a break from the spotlight for awhile... she needs to focus on her family. People need to stop houding her
Pray for her. That is the only thing that will help.

m, kalamazoo, mi (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:36 PM)

why is nobody putting part of the blame on her ex-husband. Do your really believe that she and she alone
is responsible for the spiral down???? Do you not think that they didn't do drugs or party hard together????  For a man who claimed he didn't marry her for the money is sure playing a good hand at helping to destroy her. Is she goes bankrupt, who's going to work to feed the babies?  No ones gives money away like Brittany.

moonpie, Jacksonville, FL (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:37 PM)

Those without sin cast the first stone! I have been praying for Britney to get the help she needs for awhile now,and will continue to do so. I've cried feeling how devastating it would be if she died,or was paralyzed or something in a car wreck. As one sister on this planet to another I care about what happens to Britney and want only wholeness health and true joy for her every day. I want the same for her children,and hope like heaven that they get it. I send her only blessings,not curses,nor judgement because that is harmful to her,and myself. Not to mention the harm it causes her innocent children.

Danielle White,Grass Valley California (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:37 PM)

Sometimes people are not in a state of mind to even ask for a second chance - or know that they need one.  I for one have experienced a family member who has fallen so low - and ruined relationships because of it.  I cannot give up oin this person - because I know how he once was, and is capable of being again.  Does this mean I endorse the behavior - no.  It means I will be there to try to help if it is possible.  Hopefully Britney will wake up before she loses her chance with her kids.  For some people- they just don't realize unless they've seen first hand - and I hope for their sakes they never have to.  But ... it would make them a lot more understanding.

Kim St. Loui, MO (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:38 PM)

Britney has gotten one chance another and yet again another but she will not change.Its always easier the second time around, she needs to go broke so she can realize what she lost and how to change it so people will see that shes changed. ACTIONS ARE STRONGER THAN WORDS. So lets see if she does change

Bob,Chicago,IL (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:39 PM)

God helps those who help themselves.  God listens all she has to do is ask..... until then no matter how many prayers are said for her, she's on her own.  

Jack Yeobin (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:39 PM)

Sad case, but I do believe that her reckless behavior has a lot to do with that cold hearted man doing her wrong. She is a young lady who has lived a very fast life very fast. She has gone through so much more than the average person at her young age. Many women (sorry guys) who have gone thru divorces and hard break ups can somewhat sympathize with what she's going through. She is not hte only women that has gone through things, but she is one of few that have gove through it publicly. She doesn't know how to deal. It will be a sad day if something happens to her, everyone will be devastated.

CJ (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:39 PM)

I once heard someone say on tv that it takes longer for celebarties to hit rock bottom because their fall from grace is softer than "normal" people. I don't follow to closely to the Spears drama but unless you live under a rock you can't help but to have an idea of whats going on in her life. I haven't had a chance to listen to her newest album but I will even shamelessly admit that I like her newer songs. Buying or not buying her album isn't going to stop her path of self destruction. The media moving onto someone else would be a better solution. Instead of laughing at her situation people should pray for her that she receives the help she needs. Its a shame to see talent go to waste and with age her music gets better.

Amanda, Mississippi (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:41 PM)

CLW - although I agree with you, somewhat, I have to wonder what role Britney is playing in all of this.  There are hundreds, if not thousands of celebrities who live their lives, under the same scrutiny, go out to eat, go to the gas station, all of the things that Britney does, but no one is following them.  In my mind, Britney herself, along with the enabling crew she has with her, set up these photo ops with the paps - I think it's part of her mental disorder.  The attention she seeks is almost constant, and it's only when she's not getting what she wants that she acts out against the people that are keeping her on the map.  Also, the fact that we all crave the stories, and the horrors, etc., fuels the fire under Britney and her crew, and they create more drama.

It's truly unfortunate, the girl is talented, albeit mechanically-enhanced talent, but talent none the less.  It's obvious to most people (with any kind of intelligence) that Britney is suffering from a serious mental condition, and until she admits to that, we'll continue to see the train eminently jumping the tracks - and we'll continue to watch, it's our nature.  Britney is the only person who can help Britney, and I truly hope she comes to that realization before it's too late.

Jen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:41 PM)

I'm not religious at all, I've never really liked her music, but I feel just awful for the situation she is in right now.  The people who say she doesn't deserve help are the same self-rigteous people who won't recognize depression or it's ilk as medical problems and instead call people who suffer them weak-willed.  She badly needs help, of a professional sort, and she very well may not even know how or to ask for it.  But her actions in the last year are a screaming cry for help that no one appears to be answering with the exception of people trying to capilatize off of her.  And then of course all of the people judging her, when they have never and will never be in a position to test their own mettle in the same way.  Gutless.

Concerned, Des Moines, IA (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:41 PM)


Britney Spears is suffering from a mental disease.  We have all forgiven other celebrities for their mental problems and/or addictions, which included paying for sex and many of them are as successful as ever.  Has Britney ever had a D.U.I.? No, we really need to worry about those that think it is ok to drink and drive because they basically get away with it.  There are many people around the world that are given more than just a second chance after making some terrible but conscious decisions.  Her decisions are coming from a place where she doesn’t have the capability to make the right decisions.  There are other celebrities of sound mind that think they can drink and drive whenever they want to, which includes chasing others down in their car while they are on drugs and alcohol, who basically get away with almost killing themselves and others.  

Britney is a young woman, a young mother, who desperately needs help.  No one should be betting on her life and when she will die, and to me, that is way worse than what she is doing with her own life. In fact, I wonder how that makes her feel.  She is being betrayed by those who once loved her, yet turned on her when she began this downward spiral.  How many times has that poor woman been betrayed, starting with her first love telling the world all about their private relationship?  

For years, Britney has provided the world with entertainment through her music, and she is also involved in many charities.  We all should be praying that she receives help and actually does obtain that “big comeback” we are all hoping she achieves.  Also, let’s keep in mind that she has two adorable little boys who need their mommy, and if she gets better she can become the great mother she was before.  None of us are perfect, but our lives are not spread all over every news outlet.  She has felt betrayed and feels she has no one, and that is why she latched onto this paparazzi guy that will probably end up betraying her too.  She needs her family and God. Pray for her, her family, and her little boys.  They all need all the strength they can get.  Pray and imagine she gets her life together, and let your thoughts of her presumed death disappear.  I can’t imagine how she would feel know that her once “supporters” are supporting the idea of her death. Predicting her death is disgusting, what if it was your sister, mother, girlfriend, niece, or even aunt that is going through this?  Could you imagine people treating your loved one like this? For those of you that are judging or even predicting when and how her life will end, get a grip and do something more positive with your lives.

Jess, Parker, CO (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:42 PM)

I agree that Britney deserves to have a bit more empathy showed to her from both the public and the press. Every person is guilty of making decisions that may not have been considered sound or appropriate by others. I personally do not agree with most of the decisions that I have seen published in the media. The important thing to remember here is that you cannot always believe things that are published in the tabloids. Her face sells magazines, so I am sure that a lot of what is said about her is over exaggerated, maybe even false. It is hard to live your whole life infront of the cameras. I have heard the argument, "Well, then she shouldn't be famous." But honestly, there is no way the girl can ever try to have a normal life. If she one day decided that she was going to leave fame behind, get a normal job, and a normal home, an economic car, the world would think she was even more crazy. At this point what is the girl to do? What kind of life would it be if she were forced to stay in her home?

Megan, Portland , Oregon (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:42 PM)

She is mentally unstable, she needs professional help.  Someone needs to intervene and get her that help.  She hasnt asked for second chances, because she is not thinking rational. She has probably had a nervous breakdown, and continues to spiral down hill. I cant believe her parents can do nothing.

lisa, Lewis Center Ohio (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:42 PM)

Britney doesn't want to go on a peaceful Sunday drive.  She WANTS the paparazzi to follow her.  If she didn't, she wouldn't be aimlessly driving from gas station to gas station daily.  I also don't think she even wants her kids back.  I think that, like the multiple puppies she's had, she's tired of them, so she gave them away.

Lala on LI (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:42 PM)

I've been thinking a lot about Britney lately.  Don't know why she is on my mind.  I am not a fan.  I generally do not have compassion for people who seem to have it all and throw it away because they cannot get their act together.  But I have to ask myself...what has happened to her.  How could a beautiful, talented, young person get so far out of control.  There has to be something in her past that has affected her deeply and is still affecting her.  She may not even know what that is herself.  And, if you can't figure it out....you can't fix it or try to get help fixing it.  I hope she slows down enough in life to find out who she really is so she can find the help she needs to get beyond this sad situation she has gotten herself into.

BJ (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:44 PM)

I am glad I am able to see the view like you still out there.  Few days after Spears break-down, her ex-husband's lawyer has made a request to have the report open to public, as if she is not humiliated enough, as if she is not the mother of these two boys.  Don't forget that her ex wanted to sale their sex tape just a yeat ago before his lawyer found better way to demand more money. Yes, they virtually eat her alive because of her money.  Briney might create her own down fall, but they really make a career of taking her money!  The are much much worse than Britney!

edna, Philadelphia, Pa (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:44 PM)

JOKE...no talent, no voice, no sense, no matter!! Who cares about this crap..think world peace!! "Q"

jaycee collins, LA, CA. (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:44 PM)

Well said! I continue to support Britney by purchasing her music also. I hope she gets all the help she needs. All the naysayers need to think about their own children. She is just a child herself. Thanks for writing this, Don.

Kristin, Houston, Texas (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:45 PM)

I've tried to put myself in this girls shoes.I say girl because she does not behave like a woman! I have two young sons who are my world. I've battled an eating disorder and depression for years. Everytime I feel overwhelmed or start having a pity party for my self I look at my two boys and realize I have to fight with every ounce of my being not to fall back into my own self destruction because they are more important to me than being a size 2. So I don't understand why she doesn't realize how important they are to her or she is to them. They are the only two beings that love her unconditionally and she's gonna screw that up. I think she needs to leave L.A. and live like the general population, paycheck to paycheck and hopefully remember what's more important in her life....Family and Friends. That's where you'll find strength!

SGordon Hayesville,NC (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:45 PM)

Britney has been warped by the trappings of fame.  She realized that no one really cares about her, just what she makes possible for them.  Money and lifestyle.  So she cannot trust anyone to really love her for her.  Who do you go to when you are losing it and you have two little ones and you don't know what to do?  I guess you just lose it, in a big way.  How lonely that would be, no wonder she can't stand to go home to that big house.  I guess money can't buy you real love, makes being "poor" look better and better.  So we should feel some pity for her.  All the partying in the world won't make you whole and give you a life to be proud of.  Wish she could find at least a best friend that would say "I love you but you are making a complete ass of yourself, you hillbilly, straighten up!"

A Lawson, Nashville TN (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:46 PM)

Finally, there's an honest reporter who has the personal courage to own up to being a fan of Britney's new album. It speaks volumes about the writer to be able to focus on something good about Britney and not tear her down. Thanks for praying for her and not being one "to cast a stone" and for writing something so real and honest. It took courage and integrity to face the critism of your wife and kids and not follow the mob on the Britney bashing wagon. I hope they and other readers recognize the value in your article and your actions.

Tim Chan, San Diego, CA (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:46 PM)

Those who keep buying her music and keep putting her in the limelight continue to support and enable her behavior. She is totally and completely clueless.

Stop it. She is not worth it.

rumbler (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:46 PM)

I Think she is taking the peaple of her fan club as well as the rest of us for a ride.
Brittny thinks she is above the law and that the world owes her a rich life.
She has had it to good to fast and needs to be put back with the rest of the working world , trying make ends meet with a small income that barely cuts it.
( That is reality)
Her kids may be best off without her in the long run.
Thank god there Father has brains.

Randy Hanson Canada (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:47 PM)

God helps those who help themselves.  God listens all she has to do is ask..... until then no matter how many prayers are said for her, she's on her own.  

Jack Yeobin, South Lyon, Michigan (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:47 PM)

Second chance?  Are you kidding??  And deprive the American people of their favorite national laugh-cow? Shameful!

Nasty Nate (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:47 PM)

..."no one to blame but herself"??  We are talking about a talented child whose parents wanted to help her succeed doing what she loves.  A child who, because of that, never had the chance to live a "normal" life... never developed a "normal" sense of self, others, consequence or control.  Her entire life has been saturated with excess and dominated by media, judgment and the criticism of millions.  There are plenty of people to blame for her current situation.  I'm not saying she is not one of them, but I think she's last on the long, long list.  I'm glad at least someone believes she deserves a "second" (3rd, 4th, 5th, etc) chance.  

Robyn (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:48 PM)

..."no one to blame but herself"??  We are talking about a talented child whose parents wanted to help her succeed doing what she loves.  A child who, because of that, never had the chance to live a "normal" life... never developed a "normal" sense of self, others, consequence or control.  Her entire life has been saturated with excess and dominated by media, judgment and the criticism of millions.  There are plenty of people to blame for her current situation.  I'm not saying she is not one of them, but I think she's last on the long, long list.  I'm glad at least someone believes she deserves a "second" (3rd, 4th, 5th, etc) chance.  

Robyn (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:48 PM)

I'd imagine the day to day living for her to be something few of us ever had to concieve of.  Growing up as an idol and an icon with the flood of public attention has got to be incredibly stressful, almost surreal.  If one of us felt like we were downing wouldn't we also be thrashing a bit?  I think we can still honor a person's contribution independently of our opinions of their personal lives; something that was never our business to begin with.  Best of luck B. Know you'll find your feet and stand again.

Allan Bailey, Corpus Christi, TX (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:48 PM)

I think you are very right.  I feel sorry for this poor girl.  She has no idea how to live outside of the public eye.  If I could help her I would.  Living in a small rural area with no media could certainly not hurt at this point!  Thank you for having the courage to write about this in a much different light than what we normally see.

Lori Meyer, Alden MN (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:49 PM)

BRITTANY IS CRYING OUT FOR HELP! SOME ONE NEEDS TO STEP UP AND TAKE OVER.  THE KIND OF LIFE SHE LIVES IS NOT A LIFE ANYONE WOULD WANT TO LIVE. PRAY FOR HER AND ASK GOD TO INTERVENE AND HELP HER TO CHANGE HER LIFE.  FOR THOSE WHO BELIEVE IN GOD, ONLY GOD CAN JUDGE

DW (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:49 PM)

It is tragic to watch the demise of a young woman that has had everything far too soon, and hasn't had a good solid advisory system in place.  Yes I believe in second chances, but the person needs to admit they need help and she isn't at that spot yet.  I dearly hope she eventually comes to her senses before its too late.  But with mental illness the person lives in a fantasy world unfortunately.

Judith, Clayton Ca (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:49 PM)

I tough the same thing, just because she is not that cute pie anymore,,come on one;s you have kids it is hard to loose those few extra pounds, especially when you have a baby in last then 2 years a part (I have the same experience) ...but the drugs and alcohol...time to say by by to that...time to act like a grown up....your not a teenager anymore......and this paparazzi come on...live her alone...she needs some alone time to be able to think and act normal...
she is not discussing ....she is a human and have feelings, and she do care about her kids..she did not have the chance to be a mom...since Kevin took them from her, I will act like crazy if some on would take my 2 boys from me (I also have 2 boys)....
Britney start going to church and seek God, get some therapy, loose some weight take care of yourself...get back in track....ones you done that ...you will be able to get your kids back....I'll be praying for
you.... and I'll be praying that the next time you run an album it will be Gospel music.....

Kiki Orlando FL (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:50 PM)

I can't defend her she is pretty messed up but , I wish everyone would leave her alone and then maybe she will clean up her act.

vancouver b.c. canada (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:50 PM)

Its amazing, you put these people on a higher level than yourself. and when then they crumble, you want to talk smack.It is not our place to judge.Just pray for the girl, When she was on top,she was American Sweetheart. You made her what she is. Leave her alone.Oh,,, now you have nothing nice to say about her. You brought her cd's, went to her shows,Tried to be like her.(do you put money in God' kingdom?) Next time you ask God for something, or need healing, or help.Should you be forgiven? Do the same to others.Pray not only for her , but her whole family. To God you are just as special to him, as you thought she was to you.    

Beverlynn Chalmers, Seaford Delaware (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:50 PM)

There is only one solution: Military service.

James A (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:50 PM)

britney spears is a troubled young woman.  I am not a religious fanatic by any stretch of the imagination, but I do feel that she is one of God's children just like every one else and is as deserving of prayers and compassion as anyone else who is falling down...furthermore...perhaps we are the ones who should examine ourselves at the delight taken in her troubles...she may be an entertainer, but her life is her own...and how must it feel to lose your children? who wouldn't seek to anesthetize themselves?  

sue virginia beach (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:50 PM)

She may have had several chances, but there has to be something seriously wrong inside emotionally for her to act the way she is.  Yes, she has money and fame, and I feel sure these things have contributed to Britneys's behavior.  I still can't help but feel sorry for her and hope that she does get herself together.  I sure don't think Fedderline is any better equipped to take care of the children. I am in Britney's corner on this one.  Everyone deserves as many chances as it takes to get better. I don't believe said she should get what she wants regardless, but she does deserve people helping her and praying for her get better.  God doesn't just give us one chance.  If he did where would most of us be?

Good luck Britney, and may God bless you!

Eve (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:50 PM)

It is very interesting to hear some other views...i would only like to say that I have never walked a day in her shoes (and probably would not want too) I do not have people scrutinizing everything that I do and say...I do not have cameras taking a picture of my every waking moment, even when that moment may not be a good one...She probably wants another chance, she is just being suffocated by the media and all of the people in this world that think what is going on is good TV...She is a human being and she cannot even take time to get herself together...let's face it when you need a break you can take a drive, go for a walk call a girlfriend or family member that cares about you (not about how much money you have)and get away for a little while, no not this poor girl, she cannot take a dump without everyone in her face...I know that everyone can look at this from the outside and make judgement, but try growing up and going thru the changes that lots of kids go through, except that the media is always there to judge, make fun of or just exploit you...then try to have a normal life....I CANNOT IMAGINE what this poor women has to endure everyday, even on a good day when you are trying to pick yourself up, then you walk outside and get bombarded with negativity...i wish I could give her a place to get away from all of the madness for a while,I would be willing to bet that she would be able to get back on track....The days of watching people being fed to the lions are over, but some people have not changed much...They still enjoy watching others just slowly ravaged and their spirits beaten down by the paparrazi (LET"SNOT FORGET PRINCESS DIANA)...Britney is probably not asking for another chance, she needs a freaken BREAK, leave her alone...There is a war going on and gas prices are astronomical...Health Insurance is a mess and this is a presidential year and everything that I see is about Britney Spears, President Bush must love Britney Spears, she is his deterrent from all that is really going on....The haters are probably saying well I would deal with that for her kind of money, YEAH OKAY!  There is not enough money in the world to make me lose my mind, my children, my family, my life....We can always talk when it is not you or someone you know and love...LEAVE BRITNEY SPEARS ALONE, LET HER GET BACK TO SOME NORMALCY and then maybe some healing can begin, for everyone involved....GOD BLESS YOU BRITNEY AND YOUR CHILDREN :)

Diana , Deltona, FL (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:51 PM)

Drop out of sight for a while, people will forget (remember Paris?, old news) and move on to some other troubled person.  Get fixed while you are on hiatus.  You do not need to bring any more children into this mixed up world.  I would rather see those children in foster care than with either Federline or Ms. Spears, he needs to get fixed too!  

Myra, Ogden, Utah (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:51 PM)

very nice, for a good change. shher album is good, after all.

john doe (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:51 PM)

Why does the article have to say, "a person of faith" as though someone who isn't dependant on an ideal for validation could never understand subjectively superior morality, as though the nature of primates isn't to forgive. Take some anthropology classes.

Paul, Alberta, Canada (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:51 PM)

Has anyone out there heard of an intervention?  Perhaps her family members and friends could make this happen or are they too busy on being her so-called friend and enjoying all the publicity they might get hanging out with her.  I think Brittany could be a beautiful and caring person if she could just get her life straightend out.  I will pray for her.  Her kids need her. She will wake up one day and say where in the world has my life gone. Will it be too late?

Lynell Hansen,Yukon, Oklahoma (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:51 PM)

I can't defend her she is pretty messed up but , I wish everyone would leave her alone and then maybe she will clean up her act.

vancouver b.c. canada (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:52 PM)

Britney makes me sick.
She is definitely mental. Why does her parents not get her help ???

ROURKE Paris, TN (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:53 PM)

There is one thing and ONE THING ONLY that could possibly end Britney's ever-increasingly odd behavior.  That would be for the paparazzi to stop following her, the tabloids to stop documenting her every move and paying mountains of cash for photos of her to publish.  But we all know that's NEVER going to happen.  

anonymous, st. paul mn (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:53 PM)

I love Britney, like most, I just want to reach out for her and help her. I was 16 when I had my daughter, never did drugs or anything but did make bad choices. I am about to graduate college and my daughter is 13. I am sure Britney can make some changes when she wants to and when she realizes she is ready to.

Linda (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:53 PM)

I am a recovering alcoholic with 2 years of sobriety. I am 28 years old. I did a lot of the same things Britney has... DUI's, Public Intox, Seperation from my wife, etc... When people kept bailing me out or when the judge would give a light sentence, i was convinced I couldn't do anything wrong. It took me to be locked up in a jail hundreds of miles away from home, while on a business trip, and having everyone refuse to bail me out. I had to face the consequesnces by myself. I come from a wealthy family, so I knew they could afford it, but they didn't pay the bail. They stopped enabling me. When I was release a month later, I became homeless. THAT IS WHEN I REALIZED MY LIFE WAS A MESS!!! Because of this, I got the help and support systems that I need. Since I got sober, I have rekindled my marriage (we are having our first child this sumer), purchased a beautiful home, and my relationship with my family and friends is stronger than ever. This needs to happen to Britney if she is to get better. Britney's family and friend have to tell her they do not want her in their life until she is sober (and then actually do it). The short term is painful, but long term is a blessing. Britney does not want to get better...yet. She hasn't lost enough, nor has she realized it's her fault. Enabling an alcoholic or alcoholic personality just hurt them worse.    

Mike, Indianapolis, IN (Sent Friday, January 18, 2008 1:53 PM)



SEND A COMMENT

PLEASE READ: All comments must be approved before appearing in the thread; time and space constraints prevent all comments from appearing. We will only approve comments that are directly related to the blog, use appropriate language and are not attacking the comments of others.

Message (please, no HTML tags. Web addresses will be hyperlinked):

Your name, city and state (John Doe, Seattle, Wash.): 

 Your e-mail address (jdoe@msnbc.com):

Your website (it's okay if you don't have one):

Remember me? (We'll keep it private)