Letters to the Web Editor

The reaction generated by the comments posted by Heidi Lockridge is not really surprising, and probably more due to the fact that for most average people, when news is received that someone well known is stricken by a malady or disease that is fatal, the news generates more sympathy for that person of celebrity status than it would if it was someone that was not known.

It serves to remind us all of our own hypocrisy, and at the same time it reminds us of our own immortality.

Even the mighty and the rich receive no favor from the fate that we all face. The fact that Sen. Ted Kennedy was so well publicized in his mistakes and lapses of character often generated a contempt and loathing from many, not because they were so evil acts in themselves but because they also demonstrated so widely qualities we often despise so often in ourselves.

I would not be so harsh and quick in the judgment of Heidi Lockridge, because if the truth is known, no one regrets her comments right now more than her.

Chuck Barnett
Jacksonville