The Gratification Temptation

Today's conventional wisdom tells us to get it while we can, however we can, and as fast as we can. Jesus shows us another way.

Richard Hatch.

Remember him? Last summer's Survivor survivor. The "snake" who walked off the island with a million dollars.

How soon we forget.

Not that our amnesia is related only to Rich. Who can name all five of the Spice Girls? Who remembers last year's Academy Award winners for Best Actor and Best Actress? The American gold medal winners from the 2000 Summer Olympics?

The bottom line is this, writes Jay Martel in Rolling Stone: "Everything's a flash in the pan, so why not get the most out of your flash?" Richard Hatch had his moment in the sun, and he milked it for all it was worth, even appearing in those ubiquitous "Got Milk?" ads. Regis Philbin's still wearing monochrome suits, shirts and ties, and still asking for contestants' final answers. He's getting the most out of his flash. So is Britney Spears, who's everywhere taping TV specials, recording songs, touring, marketing dolls in her likeness and shilling products - including Polaroid's Instant Cameras.

The Nasdaq creates...