Illusions by Dr. Juan Harrison

Illusions

Irene Cara’s song “Fame” says, “Remember my name.”  David Bowie’s hit “Fame” glorified it.  Elusive, fleeting, double edged, sought by the young and clung to with bloody fingers as stars fade.  As addictive as cocaine and chocolate candy, pursuing the nebulous, untouchable desire, once acquired, less satisfying than salty sea water, depressing as it slides through the fingers.

In recent days Google reveals the self-inflicted deaths of several beauty queens.  Ironically, apparently reaching a high echelon in the super competitive field of beauty pageants did not satisfy or provide the appropriate amount of happiness needed to give a person a sense of fulfillment that could last for very long, let alone for a lifetime.

Entertainers, athletes, politicians—any field where people can become famous for fifteen minutes or fifteen years—can fall victim to the drug of fame and adoration.  Sadly, as fleeting beauty and athletic skills disappear and the public forgets, many icons of success fight to the bloody end to hang on to deteriorating fame; sadly, some cannot adjust to the loss of it and check out early on.

Part of the “grass is greener” syndrome before they leave us or disappear into ignominy may help explain why fame can be so destructive.  Because so much of the aura and mystique surrounding fame are built on illusion and perception, the dreamer can become insecure, even paranoid, not knowing who or what is real anymore.  Throw in some drugs, alcohol, and a few phony groupies and leeches and you can get one messed up individual.

Not everyone who becomes famous must let it ruin their lives.  We know that half of all lottery winners end up in financial trouble, but half do not.  Many professional athletes and entertainers make positive contributions to our society even after the glow of their flame becomes less brilliant.

Sometimes we may wish for someone else’s money, life, or fame.  Fortunately, most of the time we’re blessed with unanswered prayers.  We know “there ain’t no free money.”  Neither is fame.  It costs to become a success at anything.  Sometimes great jobs cost marriages and family relationships.  Sadly, so much of what we learn comes as we’re looking back and seeing the result of our decisions.  Maybe we need to let these sad stories remind us of the real value of our simple but valuable lives we’ve been blessed with.

By Dr. Juan Harrison