Question H

[Jonetta]

It turns out Cordie’s mother is a wealthy woman named Simone whose father Julian Taylor owns Merrick Enterprises. Simone’s husband Craig is set to take over the company soon, and they’re treated like elite royalty in Australia. Share your thoughts on this powerful family, their place in society and what they’re willing to do to secure it. Also, your thoughts on a society so quick to embrace a family as above reproach, showering them with adoration.

[Anita]

No body knows what Simone did. All they see is a family that has donated a great deal of money to secure their place in society. Simone never expected she would be found half-way around the world from Chicago. People don't often look past the surface they see, and this looked like a wonderful family.

[Charlene]

I imagine that we could all name a few powerful business and/or political families -- either locally or nationally -- that have a measure of adulation that is thoroughly undeserved.

[Robin]

Charlene wrote: "I imagine that we could all name a few powerful business and/or political families -- either locally or nationally -- that have a measure of adulation that is thoroughly undeserved."

True.

[Sharon]

I agree.

[Jessica]

People love to be entertained and watching the rich and famous move about society must be one of the oldest forms of entertainment. Royal weddings are still all the rage.

[Sandra]

You're right, Jessica. But it has really started to disturb me that people put so much store in "images" people project. It's shallow and really bothers me to see the wealthy flaunt their wealth and use the power it affords them for such superficial things. I guess it's just me but the older I get, the more I see through the masks into the ugliness often hidden inside...and the more I find myself drawn to the simpler, honest things in life and to the people who are real.

[Jessica]

Totally agree Sandra!

[Sharon]

I agree Sandra.