A Week of Great Loss

This has been a week of great loss for America....

Earlier this week Ed McMahon died at the age of 86. He was one of the greats in show business and a true broadcaster. If you are American, you know who Ed McMahon is and you don't think of him without hearing in your head, "And h-e-e-e-e-e-e-ere's Johnny!"

Today, two entertainment greats died. Farrah Fawcett, best known as an "Angel" lost a long and couragous battle with cancer today. Fawcett became a sensation in 1976 as one-third of the crime-fighting trio in "Charlie's Angels." A poster of her in a clingy, red swimsuit sold in the millions and her full, layered hairstyle became all the rage, with girls and women (and men) across America. But I would like the think she will be remembered best for her best role...a fighter! She fought cancer whole-heartedly and gave a good message to America.... "It's hard but it's worth the fight." She never believed for a minute that cancer would get the best of her. And I don't think it did. I think we saw the best of her over the last nine months.

Michael Jackson also passed away today at age 50. The once known "King of Pop" suffered a heart attack in his home. With Ed McMahan and Farrah Fawcett, you can only remember good. There were no scandels and rumors spread about them like with Michael. At times like these it is easy to recall and talk about all the "trouble" in Michael's life. Contraversy was constantly surrounding Michael since the 90's. But as decent human beings we need to remember Michael for the good that he was too. He was a musical and business genius and touched many peoples lives through his music. In respect for him and his family I pray this country has mercy for him and the life he lived, though troubled. We need to remember that for the most important years in his life he was at the hands of a merciless abuser. I know that weighed heavily on the person he was and became over the years.

More locally, Jeramie Smith of Sulphur Springs and father to Caleb Ryan Smith, who is still in Children's Hospital in critical condition due to a near drowning at the Sulphur Springs City Pool two weeks ago, died today. He appearently died in his sleep. The exact cause of death is unknown, but I have been told he had multiple health issues. Please keep all of these families in your prayers.

America is mourning tonight......