Michael Jackson, R.I.P.

One of the axioms of life I have long drilled into my children is, "It's ok to be rich,  but never be famous."

As Hollywood repeatedly demonstrates, adults are unable to handle the massive adulation that comes with fame.  Children don't have a prayer.  The list of child stars that have come to a bad end is seemingly endless.  Why would any parent subject their child to that kind of life?

Michael Jackson never stood a chance.  But is it only me that senses a massive level of hypocrisy going on with his death.  Hasn't Michael Jackson's major role in our culture for the last decade been to serve as the butt of jokes on late night television.  The media has been relentless in hounding this poor kid.  Now the same media is giving him the adulation he so desperately needed,  just a little too late.

So Michael, I hope you rest in the peace you never had in life.  And mothers,  don't let your sons grow up to be famous.