Jack of Harts

This has been a heavy week for Generation X. Three stars died, all three of them were someone you knew if you were alive back then. Whether you liked them or not, whether you had a TV or a radio or not, they were the people you would see just walking around in the media spotlight of the 1980s. Whether they were famous for eating a bat on stage, or for being on a TV show that was so popular the father was a TV dad for millions of kids, or for being the American hero who fought the enemies of America every week. You saw them on shirts, in interviews, and in music videos. Today they are dead, and I grieve for that.

I grew up without a TV or a radio at all, but I recognize them all. When I got a TV, I did what all teenagers do. I woke up early on Saturday morning to watch cartoons. But before cartoons started, I watched The Incredible Hulk Hogan waving the American flag as he fought dastardly Russians, Sheiks, Warriors, Animals, or Giants in the WWF ring. I remember when the music video “I am a Real American” came out. I remember watching Hulk Hogan strut down through crowds of cheering fans. I remember him telling kids to eat right and stand up for your country and protect the weak. He was bigger than life. He was ridiculous. But he also told us to be better. I was always entertained by him.

Today I am sad. The Hulkster has left the bounds of this Earth. But I’m also happy. He found Jesus not long ago. He found peace according to his family. I rejoice in that. I wish he could have found Jesus earlier, you understand. But I am always happy when someone who dismissed Him earlier in life chooses to accept Him later.

Hulk Hogan is dead. Long live Hulkamania. 🙂