With the death of Farrah Fawcett and the shocking announcement later the same day of the passing of Michael Jackson, I wondered about the fascination with the lives of people that many of us never come to know personally and how their deaths impact us. Why do we care?

I had just learned of Farrah Fawcett’s death on the Internet and was thinking how sad. Then came the news of Michael Jackson’s death, overshadowing Fawcett’s lost battle with cancer.

Michael Jackson’s death affected me more and gave me pause to reflect on the influence these iconic figures have on so many lives. With Michael it was his energetic hip-pop music and dance style that many admired and often mimicked in dance clubs across the world. I was one of those people who gave the moonwalk a try. Although many considered him “Wacko Jacko,” I felt sorry for him and considered him to be a sensitive, misunderstood and compassionate person. His talent as a premier entertainer will not be denied, even with the eccentricities. He taught us all how to moonwalk and live with passion.

When iconic figures such as these pass on, it gives us pause and opportunity to reflect on one’s own life and on what legacy will we leave behind when we pass on. I, like many, mourn their passing; may their families and loved ones be comforted and may Michael and Farrah be at peace.

PATTI McALPINE

Pawtucket