Let's enjoy for the sake of enjoying

I can't figure out who deserves credit for what.

Everyone is talented, but most do not reap fame and fortune from their genetic gifts.

How much accolade do people merit for birthrights (or ostracism for unfortunate looks or addictions)?

Do we give them credit for having the drive to capitalize on their talent, or is the drive also genetic?

Thespians make millions on their looks and talent, but is the adoration warranted? And why do we value their opinions on non-acting issues?

Alex Rodriguez may not win father of the year, but he still pulls in $29 million per year (more than the entire Houston Astros' payroll), and millions more in endorsements, for diminishing prowess between the lines.

How many of us would love to have the ability to make even $100,000 per year playing our favorite sport?

Have self-centered rock stars making millions filling arenas with fans cheering every strutting note earned the idolatry?

Rich and famous writers, athletes, musicians, artists, comedians, computer whizzes, inventors, royalty and other wealthy offspring, televangelists and other actors: The list of the birthright-lucky is endless.

Yet, billions of impoverished would envy the unglamorous lifestyle we enjoy on the High Plains using whatever modest talents we have that stuck us here.

My point is not that everyone shouldn't capitalize on whatever they were gifted with, but let's simply enjoy others' talents and looks — not worship them.

Wendel Sloan respects talent and looks, and would have settled for either. Contact: [email protected]