Why Is This the Pop Star Norm Now?

If pop stars visit a sacred site of cultural, religious, and historical importance and have a moment of profound connection and deep appreciation for said site, apparently their initial reaction is not to let the moment sink in, rather, they feel the need to Instagram it. Justin Timberlake visited the Western Wall in Jerusalem on Wednesday (the superstar, who was reportedly joined on the visit with his wife Jessica Biel, has a scheduled show in Tel Aviv that evening) and, just like Beyoncé before him, he chose to gather likes and comments rather than keep the moment private. (Beyoncé, if you'll recall, found it necessary for some reason back in March to Instagram her visit to Anne Frank's house.)

Timberlake posted a photo of himself paying his respects at the Western Wall (also known as the Wailing Wall or the Kotel) with a caption that read, "The Holy Land… What an experience. I will never forget this day. #Israel." While there's no doubt in my mind that Timberlake's visit to the holiest site for those of Jewish faith was an unforgettable experience, did he really need to share his moment of reflection with millions upon millions of followers? Granted, we live in a time where everything is documented by everyone, but is nothing sacred anymore? Praying at the Western Wall or visiting Anne Frank's house calls for personal privacy, even for two of the most famous people in the world.

Now, of course, this isn't even a fraction as horrific or disrespectful as the head-shaking phenomenon of Grindr profile pictures being taken at the Holocaust Memorial, but celebs could certainly lead by example. Maybe everyone who visits these places of great significance could just take it all in without deciding which filter would look best.

Here's Timberlake's Instagram in question:

Image: Instagram