San Diegans have recently been jumping out of their pants to catch a glimpse of the almost-winner of American Idol, Adam Lambert. Popularized by his eccentric style, howling vocals, and flashy performances, Lambert has gracefully ridden the wave of sudden fame.
He''s been a modest young man with a suddenly huge following nationwide. Like most other contestants, Lambert had to ascend through the ranks, competing against many others for that coveted final spot.
And so the story has gone for others before him. Sudden fame out of absolute anonymity. Aiken, Studdard, Clarkson, and Daughtry are just a few that remind us that for many the rise to fame may be just around the corner.
For the majority, however, no such path exists. At least not a realistic one. Innate gifts vary tremendously from person to person, from science to the arts, athletics and public service. Yet we all strugle, it seems, to find that one gift which sets us apart from everyone else and that lends us that hope of a better tomorrow.
Perserverance and determination, positivity and self-belief, are the essential components necessary, it seems, to seal the deal and deliver that gift to those around.
A lot of the time, we find it amusing to see others'' failed attempts to do this. We''re quick to mock and point other people''s short-comings. It''s even easier when it appears to us that those in the spotlight "making fools of themselves" seem to know that their chances of success aren''t really there and are content simply being center stage for those brief but exciting 15 minutes of fame.
For this reason, it is really a sad ending to a young life. Alexis Cohen not personally known by America, but certainly judged by most of us as though we did, was killed early Saturday when she was struck by a car in New Jersey. "Deputy Chief Michael Mohel of the Ocean County Prosecutors Office says an autopsy indicated she suffered chest, head, and abdominal injuries."
Sadly, she was only 23 years old. She is best known for auditioning for American Idol only to be turned down by the judges. Afterwards, Alexis broke out into a raging rant, particularly aimed at Simon Cowell. This triggered lots of laughs, awes, and nods of disbelief. She later attempted again during the 8th season.
All joking and judgement aside, it is in deed the tragic end to a young life full of hope and in search of a dream come true; something most of us seek in our own unique way. God bless Alexis Cohen, may she rest in peace.