There are certain things in life that are generally thought of as things that we should have an interest in, in order to be well rounded individuals. This is not a good way for things to be introduced to us, however. Let's face it, who really wants to do things that we should be doing? It's like the classic argument between parent and child over eating vegetables. As artistic pursuits go, it is taken for granted that the urbane among us will often have an interest in things such as dance, opera, and fine art. But how did they get past the "vegetables" scenario and really acquire this interest?

The truth is that studying the arts is of marvelous benefit to you. And it's fun. That's right. Many great forms of art, from the theater to the ballet, are meant to be forms of entertainment, you know. You're supposed to enjoy them. And anyone can if they simply have a place to start. I have some suggestions for you to try.

The best place to start is always where you have already started. I bet you didn't even know you had. But there most likely is something of artistic merit that you enjoy already. Do you have a print hanging on your wall at home? Have you seen one in your favorite eatery or your doctor's office that you have admired while you wait? Just because the signature on it doesn't say Van Gogh or Matisse, it doesn't mean that these don't count.

Do you like to watch movies? Then what makes you think you wouldn't enjoy a live version? That's exactly what a play is. Just a story acted out by thespians on a stage. It can contain the full range of emotion that you would find in a Hollywood blockbuster. I'm talking intrigue, love, hate, betrayal, war, peace, and some comedic elements thrown in for good measure. If your choice in movies only goes towards explosions, then I'm afraid it can't help you there though. But would you really want Bruce Willis driving a burning car off a stage and into your lap?

Are you into music? Do you like to dance, or at least watch people shake what their momma gave them at the club? Well, you're in luck, my friend! Because Broadway style shows are jam packed with both, and you can find them in most major cities. Many people have an aversion to show tunes and Broadway, and you may be one of them. But have you ever really sat down and listened to a show tune? Have you gone to see any musical theater ever? These productions are well staged and choreographed. There is a lot of money behind every one of them. Do you think that investors would just throw their cash away on something that wasn't absolutely spectacular?

Something that you must keep in mind when beginning your journey into the arts is that you really can't go wrong. As I have pointed out, you may have already begun. And even if you haven't, these things were designed to entertain and delight you. All you have to do now is let them.