Look at me, I'm Sandra Dee

Anyone who has seen Grease recognizes that song from it. It made a reference to Sandra Dee's reputation. She was considered a symbol of innocense & purity in the 50s. She died today, 20 Feb 2005. Today, she has been forgotten by most. She was married to Bobby Darin. When the marriage ended in divorce it also effectively ended her career. She died of kidney failure.

Also, Hunter S. Thompson died today. He was a symbol of the late 60s, early 70s, drugs immorality etc. The total opposite in some ways to Sandra Dee. He was the creator of Gonzo journalism as well as the inspiration for Duke in Doonesbury. His death was a suicide, a sad end to what was often a sadly wasted life due to abusing drugs & alcohol.

Each of these persons has had an influence on our culture, for better or worse. Each was given talents by God. Each will have to answer to God for how they were used.

Fame & fortune didn't bring either of them happiness. It brought pain & sufferring in different ways. There is a lesson to be learned from this, unfortunately, it rarely is since there are so many talented people out there who's stories are very similar. May they rest in peace.