Something to Ponder.

Agree.

In comparison, teachers touch so many lives yet receive little recognition and it would be best if I don't get started on the salaries of same...

I agree wholeheartedly. 💯

The best entertainers may give a good example or set a standard of work ethic that inspires others but they need to stick to their chosen roles and leave all that other stuff to those qualified. Great advice David - thanks. I NEED a bartender!  HA!

They should stick to entertaining and keep their opinions to themselves.

@sizedoesmatter AMEN.

@perrone1 It would appear you do quite well on your own.

Posted by: @bob-jackman

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@perrone1 It would appear you do quite well on your own.

Well, you know. You pick stuff up once in a while. Ya buy a little gin, a little vermouth, and first thing you know - Boom; you have a martini. Just luck really.

The other day, just for fun, I happened to mix vodka and orange juice while Shirl was fixing some electrical work around the house. She asked for a screwdriver and while I went to get one, I handed her the drink I just made. You wouldn't believe what happened next!

@perrone1:  I feel for you Tony.  I would have thought she would like that you thought it was time for a break.

Posted by: @carsman1958

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@perrone1:  I feel for you Tony.  I would have thought she would like that you thought it was time for a break.

LOL! Oh she took a break all right - she had me make her another one and took the day off! 

let's talk about what their paycheck tells you.

Hmmm...I'm confused.

If professional entertainers and athletes are being mistaken for someone of importance...who's doing the mistaking? No argument that there are plenty of them whose sense of importance is way out of proportion, but the obsession with them is more of a societal issue, mostly due to a lack of critical thinking.  

And why should they keep their opinions to themselves? Remember, opinions are like a******s, everyone's got one. 

One group that definitely needs to stick to their role and leave the other stuff to those more qualified: POLITICIANS.

The above rant brought to you by a former entertainer, (cult) media personality, and educator. Let the flaming begin! 

Paul, professional athletes and entertainers are valued members of our society. What this discussion comes down to is a definition of importance. Also as you stated, proportional importance. 
As you say, societal pressures and support have built those in the entertainment industry, no matter what part they play, influencers, politicians, athletes, singers or whatever into having disproportional income and out of balance influence which is usually viewed as implied importance. What you say is correct and it is society that views them as important.
I rushed this together quickly but hopefully coherently.