Jim Stynes was applauded by journalists when he shared his battle with cancer and Michael Jackson has received accolades in obituary notices. Both sets of praise remind me of the difficulties and dare I suggest the vagaries of our praise. Jim Stynes [Yes, he is my Melbourne footballer hero!] has a consistent positive lifestyle. Michael Jackson was less so and A.N.Wilson asks whether our reaction to Michael Jackson’s death shows how shallow we have become. Yet there is applause for both of these men.

Why this apparent unevenness in our recognition of greatness in skill and behaviour? Where is sanity located in the recollection of people’s contributions to societal well-being?

Please pray for Jim Stynes’ recovery and for his family.