Celebrate All Lives, Not Just Those of the Rich and Famous

Photo by P.M. Schlenker

What I can't understand is why people who don't even know the royal couple are so excited over the birth of Kate and William's baby? Heck, there were countless other babies born today, but was the news of their births broadcast all over the Internet, television, and radio? Will their pictures be plastered on the covers of the tabloids in the checkout line at Walmart when I go grocery shopping this week? I seriously doubt it, but then, those babies weren't "royalty" nor were their parents celebrities. They were mere "commoners," some of whom may grow up to become soldiers, firefighters, doctors, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, emergency medical technicians, or first responders and actually make a positive contribution to life on this planet. Personally, I don't give one hoot in you-know-where that Kate and William had a baby or that it was a boy. I don't know the royal couple, and I seriously doubt I ever will. In fact, I know I never will because I'm a commoner.

The problem I have with all this hoopla over the birth of the royal couple's baby is that it just goes to show that society values some people more than others, and those that are most valued are those with wealth and power. Of course, in the case of most celebrities, looks are also a main contributing factor. We should value all people, regardless of their income and social standing--or their looks. Some of the nicest--and the best--people I have ever known have been neither rich, powerful, glamorous, or especially good-looking, but they have been decent, good, caring human beings, and they have been beautiful where it mattered--on the inside. Moreover, they have contributed something positive to this planet. They have made a difference for the better, and their lives are to be treasured.

I am reminded of a poem I read years ago and never forgot, although I long ago forgot who wrote it and have been unable to locate the writer:

Long live the lion, the leopard, the lemur, and the lamb.

Bow to the beaver, the burro, and the bear.

Hail to the hippo and the heavenly hawk.

And weep for dinosaurs and dodos lost.

What this poem means, at least in my opinion, is that all lives are to be treasured because each living being, whether human or animal, is special and unique, and when that being is gone, he or she or it can never be replaced. Granted, yes, Kate and William's baby is to be treasured, but then so are all babies, not just those who are lucky enough to be born into royalty.

And now I am going to go have a glass or two of wine and toast all the newborns in the world.