We Need a Better Movement than Switching to MetroPCS

You learn a lot about the people’s desires and culture’s direction by paying attention to commercials and marketing messages. The recurring themes and ideas are especially important to note.  One major theme I have noticed in the last year is the that of a “movement.”

The year 2011 was filled with legitimate movements of people, united for or against something.  The most obvious examples are the protests that arose in the Middle East, as common people (empowered by social media connection) revolted against tyrannical leaders and corrupt governments.

What’s really interesting is how many different companies promise that if you buy their product, eat their sandwich, or join their service, you too can be a part of a “movement.” Hence the MetroPCS commercial above.

People are hungry to be a part of a movement, to do something meaningful together. This 30 second add, like so many others, taps into this human desire.

It starts and finishes with people together on a subway, and then goes on to show completely different people doing many different things.  It portrays unity and celebrates diversity. Brilliant.

But let’s be real, changing your phone plan to MetroPCS does not bring a “new way of thinking” and “liberation” any more than drinking coffee helps get rid of bad breath in the morning.

Although many companies are doing so, we’re not here to declare #LiveFully as the next huge movement.

For now, the best word I can think of is “project,” because it is something to build together, like a construction project being built by a team of workers.  The only way to “unite a global community that believes following Jesus is the most full” is to join together, share the stories together, and encourage more to connect.

Will it become a true movement? We hope so. But in order for that to happen, we need you.

If the core convictions of #LiveFully resonate with you, tell us how.  If you are passionate about making a difference in culture, tell us which sphere or industry you want to impact.  Let’s build this community together and see what can happen.