Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Jen Petrie, San Jose, CA — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 18:14:34 GMT

Amen to that. You just never know. Life is so f***ing random. And not fair. You just need to treasure every day and live life to the fullest.

Bernie Mac was a great comedian and I am saddened to hear of his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Denise, London — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 18:17:31 GMT

Heaven really just got funnier. I pray that your soul sir Bernie surely rests, in your words "retire" in peace and enters the kingdom of heaven. A big loss to the world of not only entertainment but the bigger world.. all the millions of people around the world that you managed in your short time here to bring joy to are all missing you and will continue to smile for you...i love you Bernie

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Bryan — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 18:26:24 GMT

Good Post!

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Shortly, Anchorage, AK — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 18:28:53 GMT

Couldn't have said it better myself.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Scott, Medford, OR — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 18:33:09 GMT

Seems you literally mailed this one in. Couldn't MSNBC have found SOMEONE who truly knew and/or cared about Bernie Mac? Instead we get some totally unrelated analogy to a rich writer's trip to an exclusive resort? Doesn't do any justice at all to Bernie. Yeesh, what a disgrace. You shouldn't even have bothered.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Kimberly, raleigh, NC — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 18:50:17 GMT

He will be greatly missed. I know I rarely saw his stand up but his work on the Bernie Mac show inspired me with great laughter, moral family dilemmas and his real talk to America.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Greg, Lake Forest, CA — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 18:50:31 GMT

The point, Scott, is that Bernie was a celebrity, but that doesn't mean he deserves more attention that anyone else who passed away unexpectedly today. Justice to Bernie? The fact that his death was on the news and thousands of others' weren't is plenty of justice. For crying out loud, get your head out of People magazine. Talk about someone who shouldn't have bothered.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Simone London — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 18:53:02 GMT

So sad. You will be deeply missed.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

James, Fayetteville, North Carolina — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 18:56:18 GMT

You know we would want to live forever, But unfortuatly things happen for a reason, you have to believe that Bernie mac was trying to fight this sickness he had, But it overtook him, In my mind Bernie Mac is a comedy legend, and he made everybody laugh, This young man at 50 years old was taken away from us to soon and he will truely be missed. Gods with you Bernie.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Mark, Tacoma, WA — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 19:00:21 GMT

I knew Patrick Findlay, and based on his life and his relationships, our family has been forever blessed. The course of our lives have been changed for the better. I'm sure there are many people saying the same thing about Bernie Mac. Appropriate comparison to the wisp of life we all must enjoy.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Jimmy — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 19:02:33 GMT

Man what a shock to wake up and hear this. Bernie was an unbelievable talent. It's a shame that mainstream success came to him towards the end of his life. Back in the day, if Bernie Mac was in the movie, you were guaranteed a side-ripping funny scene from him like in Booty Call, Friday and House Party 3. In Life and The Player's Club, his comdiec genius was in full display playing Jangle leg and Dolla Bill respectively. Man, I'm going to miss you Mac. My condolences to the family.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Lashawnia, Miami,FL — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 19:12:13 GMT

My heart goes out to Mr. Bernie Mac family.We have lost a hero but God has gain an angel in heaven.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Sam, Coventry, RI — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 19:13:43 GMT

I realy have to agree with Scott. Very poor column by a major network. Denise, we are writing about somebody the world knew. Nobody gives a crap about your triathlon. I was a fan of Bernie, not huge or small but a fan. My wife who is away for work felt it necessary to text me of his death while I was out shopping with our kids. We made it a point to watch his show every Sunday night. It was funny and different at the same time which is hard to find these days. We have lost a great comedian today. That is what your column should have been about. Goodbye Bernie.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Alison, Richmond, VA — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 19:14:03 GMT

I agree with everything Scott from Medford, OR wrote. This was a totally dismissive article written by someone who clearly did not know Bernie Mac's work, but still had to make deadline. As a former journalist myself, I find it offensive.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

C.Bowman, Columbus,Ohio — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 19:24:15 GMT

I am in agreement with you Scott, if you couldn't think of nothing better than that, you should have found someone within your office that at the very least knew of Bernie Mac.
Let me just tell you a few things about the man, he was one of the "KINGS" of comedy the next best thing sence Richard Pryor and Red Fox.In the league with Eddie Murphy, Chris Tucker,and Chris Rock. He was an "OUTSTANDING ACTOR" and an all around good guy. He was a role model to all young "BLACK" males, by showing that they can be anything their hearts desire.That they are better than drugs, stealing and killing. That life has much to offer. Bernie Mac, heaven has called out your name.

Peace!!

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Arleen Rutten, St. Cloud, MN — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 19:29:37 GMT

So beautifully stated, Denise. I'm 63. My mortality smacks me in the face every day. Just two weeks ago I learned of the deaths of two people I loved deeply but with whom I'd lost touch. One was 55; the other 61. I always thought they'd be there, and I could reach out again some day. I'm still trying to process this loss and come to grips with the huge hole in my heart. Reading the sad news of Bernie Mac's death this morning augmented the reality of the fragility of our lives. And I'm still not finished grieving the losses of George Carlin and Randy Pausch. *Sigh* Feeling a bit melancholy but so grateful to still be "above ground." Think I'll go hug my dogs. Again, lovely, insightful post, Denise. Thank you!

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Viola, Middletown, NY — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 19:30:38 GMT

I agree with Scott of Medford, OR. While I didn't know Bernie Mac "personally" I have followed his career from modest beginnings in stand-up then into bit parts in movies before the major successes rolled in. "We hardly knew ye"...let the writer speak for herself. I totally agree that they could've found someone who had knowledge of Mac's career and background to write an article follwing this very stunning news. My condolensces to his family and fellow fans. This is indeed a tragic shock - may he rest in peace and keep Heaven in stitches!

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Robin Castaldi, Charlotte, NC — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 19:37:16 GMT

Yeesh yourself, Scott .... you must have serious issues if you can't pick up on the writer's sorrow over the death of Bernie Mac. In using her reaction over this unexpected, tragic loss to reflect on the value of every human life (even yours, as amazing as that might seem at the moment), Ms. Hazlick has written a poignant and moving piece. If only we could all learn to value even those who are strangers to us, the world would certainly be a much better place. But I guess, according to you, since she didn't actually know Bernie personally, she should have just kept her thoughts to herself. I, for one, am very grateful that she did not.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Dawn, Justice, IL — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 19:38:52 GMT

Thanks for the tribute. Bernie Mac's sudden death...the loss of a man so full of life...does remind us all of our own mortality. It also reminds us that we need to tell our loved ones how important they are in our lives.
My heart goes out to his family. I know they meant the world to him and I'm sure their hearts are broken today.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Bobby D Salt Lake City Ut — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 19:42:30 GMT

That was a great post!!!!
It does make you think about life. Something that we all should be doing on a daily bases, not just during times when we hear of news like this.
Our life here on earth is not guaranteed, nor will it last forever.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Linda — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 19:46:19 GMT

Rest in peace Bernie..I just can't stop laughing when I think about you talking about milk and cookies..

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Tonya C. — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 19:50:54 GMT

My condolences to the Mac family, I will uplift you in my prayers and hope that you find peace in knowing that he is no longer in any pain. He blessed us all with years of laughter and paved a way for many african american comedians. I salute Bernie Mac.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

CJ — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 20:13:03 GMT

He made us laugh, what a gift to have. To little laughter in the world today. What a loss. Condolences to the family.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Barbara McCormack, Morgan Hill, CA — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 20:16:45 GMT

I'm truly saddened, because I loved Bernie Mac. I so enjoyed his comedy. R.I.P Bernie. My condolences to his family and close friends. I'm gonna miss you Bernie.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

tasha w, jax fl — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 20:22:23 GMT

In a world that is heavy most of time. Bernie Mac was a release. For a half to two hours you could watch him and escape and laugh like you haven't in a while. God Bless his family and friends. RIP Bernie

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Rosalind Birmingham, AL — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 21:59:39 GMT

To the family of Bernie Mac. I send my condolences. We was truly a funny man and he will be truly missed. We all loved "The Mac Man". May his soul rest in peace.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Tracy, Cleveland, OH — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 22:23:16 GMT

First of all to Scott in Medford......This is an opinion type column - of course they have a reporter type column, these are two different things. You know editorial or journalistic....Anyway, we all need to consider our own mortality. We all think that we live until we are old, but a lot do not. Don't take one day for granted, one person for granted. I had 2 parents die within 18 months at the ages of 44 and 47. The last 3 generations of maternal women before me have not seen 50. It is easier said than done but just remember today could be your day or your loved ones day. Don't stress yourself over it, just try and remember that tomorrow is no guarantee so live well today. Try and treat others well and treat yourself well, too. My heartfelt sympanthies go out to Bernie's family and friends. They are the ones who are truly sad and suffering right now, Bernie is just fine.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Barbara Carter Hornlake,Ms. — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 22:23:18 GMT

My condolences to the Mac Family and he will surley be missed by me and my entire family. When we needed a laugh in our Family we would always turn in the Barnie show and there is where we would be until the show ended Farewell Mr. You will always be in our Hearts. Barbara C. August 09,2008 @5:24 pm.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

James, brooklyn, NY — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 22:23:49 GMT

I agree with Scott of Medford, OR. This should have been only about Bernie Mac's sudden death.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

jdejarnette — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 22:23:55 GMT

I never met Bernie, but I knew him through his work. I felt that he was my friend and I miss him and mourn his loss. I did not know the other gentleman either but I feel his loss also. Each life is precious and I pray that someday we will learn to value each life equally.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

PH — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 08:06:09 GMT

I will miss the Mac man! Loved him on The Bernie Mac Show. I agree this article would have been much stronger without the triathalon tie-in.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Dan , Auckland , NZ — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 08:55:49 GMT

I am a die hard fan of Bernie Mac in New Zealand. Just loved his style of comedy . My deepest condolences to his family. I wish to god to keep him safe and Im sure he will keep god happy . Bernie you rock . I shall compile a complete collection of his movies as he always made me feel good when I was down .

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Staci, NC — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 10:36:09 GMT

rest in peace Bernie Mac - you'll be greatly missed!!

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Bola Akinola — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 12:07:50 GMT

Oh wow.. Life is just too short. Despite the sadness, we should be grateful to God for allowing us to share some laughter with the GREAT Bernie Mac.. You will be greatly missed Bernie. Yes indeed, heaven just gets funnier. We should all be glad to be in the land of the living ONE MORE DAY and thank the Lord.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Michelle B Guilford, CT — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 13:23:55 GMT

I think a lot of people are missing the point of the this article. Whether or not the author knew Bernie Mac is irrelevant. This was not meant to be an obituary to the man. This piece is more of a call to all of us to contemplate our own mortality and the fleeting nature of life. To that end the writer more than accomplished his goal.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Debbie R. Philadelphia, PA — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 15:26:22 GMT

I just loved the Mac Man. I've been a major fan since his "Def Comedy Jam" days. I feel like a good friend has died. Like the preacher said at my Nana's funeral: We're all in line; we just don't know what our number is. We'd all do well to live like we were dying, because we are.

Spread love every day.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

jane doe' hallandale fl — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 16:00:48 GMT

you jnow it's so sad that we take life for granted'but some things happen for a reson heaven was missing a angel and now they have bernie full of joy and laughs. rest in peace bernie we love you but god loves you best. weaping mayendure for a moment but joy comes in the morning

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Adrian, NJ — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 16:18:16 GMT

I've read all the comments for this post and I cannot believe what some of you are saying...Denise Hazlick hit the nail on the head with this article...all human life is precious and the passing of any individual should be noteworthy...simply because somebody is not a celebrity does not mean their life should be overlooked. Bernie Mac was not a superhero; he was a person like anyone of us and I could only wish my life would be celebrated like his will be. I'm sure each and every one of you would wish the same.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

cherry.columbus,ohio — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 17:24:56 GMT

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Mac family. I was shocked and soo suprised of his passing. Death is inevitable but like others have said someone like Bernie its hard to believe. Its strange how I connected his humor with longivity. He will be sadly missed by all. We love you BERNIE MAC!

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

lh — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 17:32:26 GMT

Bernie Mack, man you sure know how to get attention fast, only wish it was a stand comic routine again. God blessed your life and you blessed a lot of people to laugh and just kick back and enjoy themselves a little. Attention well deserved. Rest in peace Mr. Mack you will be missed.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Patricia Walker Katy,Texas — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 17:49:55 GMT

Bernie Mac will always be remembered for his ability to make me laugh through film and stand up.I also appreciate his strong family values. May God bless his family ,fans and friends .

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Randy, Virginia — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 18:02:56 GMT

I also have to agree with Scott. I mean no disrespect to the writer's experience at her triathalon. But this piece was and should have been about Bernie Mac's life and passing. The writer said very little about his work or the impact it had on our society. This was poorly done. Even when I clicked on the linked, the title puzzled me "We hardly knew Ye???" Maybe the title should have read "I hardly knew him".
To the others that disagree with my point of view. How often do you read about the untimely death of any person, celebrity or not, and the subject changes to something or someone else. This was supposed to be a moratorium for Bernie Mac. Denise Hazlick next time , refer to one of the articles written about Tim Russert for an example. This was a lazy tribute written by someone who didn't take the time, and really didn't understand the impact of Mr. Mac's work. RIP Bernie Mac.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Sybil, Brooklyn, New York — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 18:38:04 GMT

First and foremost, my condolences to the family. Albeit it seems as though we lost a close and personal friend, they lost a FAMILY MEMBER and anyone who has lost someone significant to them will agree with me when I say that it is a long hard road they will have to travel from now on. My prayers and tears go with you. I remember when Bernie first appeared on Russel Simmons "Def Comedy Jam" and you could tell that his rise to stardom would be metoric at best. His level of "working class" comedy is something we all can related to, black or white, rich or poor, he struck a cord in us all. Rest in peace.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Jermaine M. Lee — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 18:48:09 GMT

The twinkle in my eye just lost some of its glimmer and the smile will not be as broad... but you King Bernie Mack... will have a special place in my heart forever. God Bless your family, and may you now find the Peace so you so deserve. God Bless the Other Kings of Comedy in their loss as well.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Val Kay, Tallahassee, FL — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 19:26:32 GMT

Mr. Mac, 'America' is now talking to you, and wonderful sentiments are being made. It appears that yes, 'America was listening.' God Bless.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Sherry J, Denver, CO — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 20:17:41 GMT

We are all so very shocked to hear of the passing of Bernie Mac. He cannot be replaced. Our prayers are with his wife and family, who we know he loved more than life. Bernie's in heaven making everybody laugh. He's in no pain and has eternity ahead. He'll be waiting for us at the gates to make us smile. Thank you for being you here on Earth, Bernie! We will miss you more than you know.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Sanford Williams — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 20:41:40 GMT

The Grim Reaper was busy this weekend with the taking of both Bernie Mac and Issac Hayes. A King of Comedy and soul's Black Moses both taken too soon. They are gone but their greatness will live on.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

John,sicily-Italy — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 20:53:38 GMT

It was a real sad day for the entertainment world and beyond. Bernie will be dearly remembered.
Rest in peace.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Deborah Smith Seattle, WA — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 21:14:54 GMT

my thoughts and prayers are with the Mac Family, I truley loved Bernie Mac for his honesty about life. I could so relate to his words of wisdom. He mad me laugh so hard i would cry. I will miss him greatly. I was a real fan of all he did.
Deborah Smith and Family

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Anna Whitfield,Trenton,NJ — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 21:31:47 GMT

My condolences go out to the Mac family,Bernic Mac will sadly be miss and we will continue to watch his show for a good laugh

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Lisa C.(Fayetteville,GA — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 22:33:26 GMT

I feel so sad when I learned the death of Bernie Mac this morning. We should reflect on his death but not on what people said about him. Because at the end of the day it is a great lost for all of us who knew him. My condolences to you all especially Mac's family. Peace.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Frank — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 00:51:12 GMT

Wow, you people have to gain some perspective! If that was your father, husband or brother who died in the triathlon, it would be a big deal and some TV personality dying would not compare.

I like that this article brings us down to one simple truth: We are all but one life, and equally important to the people around us, so treasure your life and the lives of those you love.

This was no slight against bernie mac, it was a testament that we are all important, Tv show or not.

I agree, get your heads out of people magazine, he was not more important than any other person.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

BeeElJay, Milwaukee, wi — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 01:26:19 GMT

I was truly saddened at the new of Bernie Mac's death, i felt as if an old friend of the family's had died, and i shed a tear. I feel fortunate that i was able to see him several times live-back during his Def Comedy Jam tour days and also during his Kings of Comedy tour. I also had the pleasure of meeting the Mac-man in person and he treated me and my friends as if we were his personal friends. It is indeed a sad day for hollywood, chicago and the world. My heart and condolences goes out to him and his family.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

kurt ,new orleans, louisiana — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 01:31:12 GMT

good night, Uncle Bernie.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Mr. Lee, Palm Coast, Fl. — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 03:25:27 GMT

It saddens me deeply to learn of the untimely passing of the true "King" of the "Kings of Comedy", Mr.Bernie Mac. An immensely talented individual who was blessed with a 100 watt smile & personality to match; who had the unique ability to take all of his Lifes' experiences, both positive and negative, and convert them into tasty comedic "Bon-Bons" that he shared with the rest of the world. May Gods' eternal blessings & love be extended to his family at this time.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Linda S.Philadelphia, PA. — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 04:19:00 GMT

Rest in peace Bernie Mac thanking him for the laughter that he has put into our homes watching him on TV.But God has a better job for him to do.My prayers go out to his family,friends,loved ones.Do not let a day go pass in your lives without telling your love ones.I LOVE YOU!

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Jessica — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 05:13:05 GMT

I was saddened to hear of the death of Bernie Mac. My family has watched the Bernie Mac show almost every episode and all of his movies. We have truly lost a legend, a great entertainer, and he will be missed. We have also lost another legend, Isaac Hayes. He was a great musician; and, he too, will be truly missed.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

randy mccloud rochester, ny — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 05:21:26 GMT

I think you missed the point Scott. EVERY life is important. The piece wasn't about her triathalon, it was about that sentiment.

R.I.P MacMan.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Gaborone Botswana Southren Africa — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 05:44:21 GMT

In solidarity with lovers and fans of comedy throughout the universe, one star has been dimmed, Bernie Mac has gone to the Great Apollo Theater in Heaven. In his words " Aint scared of you moth*f**kers!"

Rest in peace

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Amelia — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 11:42:02 GMT

Bernie Mac was a great comedian who was loved by many. He especially connected with poor blacks, rich blacks, working class, poor whites, rich whites, young people old people etc etc. He was a comedian for everyone and man was he real. My heart is broken.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Andrea, Iowa — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 12:06:54 GMT

My heart is full of sadness. It has been a sad moment for me. When I first got a text; that Bernie had passed. "A message I didn't believe and still can't believe". At the time, the message was untrue. But when it hit, it hit hard. Bernie was one of the funniest men I knew. Born and raised in Chicago just as I and having to eat Bologna for dinner, I can relate. My family at times, had to eat Miracle Whip sandwiches. The best sandwiches without meat.LOL!!! Death is very abnormal for a mass majority of society. I myself can't understand, How one moment you're here and the next you're gone. Bernie you will forever be remember and greatly missed. "In my heart, I carry you".

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Lena — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 12:37:45 GMT

When I saw the news splashed across my screen that Bernie Mac had passed, my heart ached as though he were a family member of my own, I shed a tear and called everyone that I knew to let them know that this great man had passed. His t.v. show brought back so many memories of my own upbringing via my parents and his way of resolving issues in the new and "politically" approved way made me laugh. You could tell he was a beautiful person from inside out because his light would shine through the screen at you, his smile was contagious and his laughter was heart-felt. He will truly be missed in our home and we would like to pass on our condolences to his family from ours. God bless you Bernie and keep them laughing in the clouds.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

ANNETTE,INDIANAPOLIS,IN — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 12:47:18 GMT

Bernie Mac was a great comedian,husband, father, grandfather, uncle, role model ,friend and a child of God. His actions and the way he lived his life was a testimony. To the family , hold on ,the tears will come less, the pain will ease but his love will sustain you through the days ahead!
God Bless!

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Batavia NY — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 13:31:26 GMT

I 100% agree. Bernie's death was a complete shock to me personally, me being as big of a comedy fan as I am. It really is very sadining for both his family and the people who grew up watching and laughing histarically. He will be missed be many.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Tadra — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 14:05:05 GMT

I feel like I've lost an uncle. His show helped us laugh at our situation(we're raising a neice,too.) I really connected to his show,and feel like a family member is missing. Our family's prayers are with his family. Be encouraged.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Joan, Aberdeen NJ — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 14:30:12 GMT

Sam, I think you missed the point of the article. I think she was trying to say even though she didn't know him well she wasn't prepared for Bernie Mac's death. When anyone dies that young, celebrity or not, there is no preparation. It's called a comparison.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Boom Powell, Ottawa, Ontaio — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 15:55:50 GMT

Thank you Denise for putting it all in perspective... Every day the world loses a great person unexpectedly.
Some days that person is famous like Bernie Mac... Most days it's a person who was only great to the people who knew and loved him like Patrick Findlay....

Don't get me wrong. The death of Bernie Mac is a tragedy and totally unexpected. When I heard he was in the hospital with pneumonia. Like everyone else I thought that he was young and strong so there would be no cause to worry. Then I heard that he died and I was shocked... Here is a man who had the opportunity to shed hope on millions of people in the world. He used his talent to help young black Americans realize that they had the potential to be anything they want. Bernie worked his whole life to make a difference and provide for his family.

But as far as we know, So did Patrick. Here is a man that at the age of 45 was doing triathlons. I'm sure that would be an insperation to all the people (young, old, black, white or whatever) who knew him or knew of him. I;m sure that in his own way he had an impact on the lives of hundreds (if not thousands). You can bet that Patrick went to work everyday for same reasons as you and I and Bernie Mac... To provide for his family. I'm sure that as he said good-bye to his family the morning of the triathlon that they never thought for a second it would be that last time that they saw him alive.

People... As I have realized over the past three weeks due to other I knew (or knew of) who died suddenly that life is short. Don't take your family and friends for granted. If someone means alot to you let them know.

My heart goes out to the family, friends and fans of Bernie Mac and Isaac Hayes. The entertainment world lost 2 member of their family this weekend.

My heart also goes out to the family, friend and fellow athletes of Patrick Findlay as well.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Frankie, Dallas, TX — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 16:02:20 GMT

Scott and James you both write that you knew Bernie Mac. Did you really know him or just watched him on TV? It's amazing how we feel that a person should get more reverence because they are a celeberity. If you lose some one close to you, do you really think they should be mourned less because they did not have a national tv show. I will miss Bernie Mac the actor, his shows and the laughter he brought. But to say you knew him be reallistic.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

M Balster East Alton IL — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 16:41:15 GMT

I as many loved watching the Bernie Mac show.He seemed straight forward,down to earth,and in between his voice and facial expressions just made me laugh so hard.Bernie will be missed and my thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Beth, Rochester, NY — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 16:54:52 GMT

I was sad to hear about Bernie Mac too.

I'm even sadder to see people on this thread that somehow think that Bernie Mac's life means more than someone elses -- actually saying who care's about some guy I never met, I only care about this other guy I never met, because he's famous.
If that's all you got out of this article, then you missed the whole point. You also missed the point that "Test Pattern" is an OPINION blog, not news reporting.
We all need to learn to love each other and value each other, not just those that are famous.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Gwenn, Long Beach, CA. — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 17:14:45 GMT

I really enjoyed Bernie Mac's TV show, I just Couldn't wait for his "America....." just to hear what he was going to say. I will miss his smile and humor..Heaven must be filled with laughter right now, make 'em laugh Bernie, and thanks for always making me laugh. I'll miss you. God's comfort to his family & friends.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Paula, Dallas, TX — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 18:23:45 GMT

To the Mac family, may God be with you and know that God is not the author of confussion nor mistakes. Rhonda Mac, I can't even imagine what you are going through however it is good news to know that you are a woman of faith and I know that you know that this too shall pass. Hold on to the memories and know that one day you two will be joined together again. It is so refreshing to know that the two of you shared 30+ years together. That says something especially for our generation. May God continue to bless you and your daughter especially. Hold on to each other and God's unchanging hand.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Deborah Johnson Asbury Park N,J — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 19:17:10 GMT

Bernie Mac and Patrick Findlay are both loved by God and it was a blessing to all who knew them and of them to have had an opportunity to have to say their hello's and good-bye's. They will both be missed.

Deborah Johnson

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

CaTedra Smith, Atlanta,GA — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 20:53:42 GMT

Bernie will be dearly missed! I thought out of all people, he would pull thru!! Life is full of surprises and you'll never know when your name is picked out of the lucky hat! R.I.P Berine......I know you're looking down on your family, friends, and your fans!

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Marilyn Thompson, Kansas City, KS — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 21:54:16 GMT

My condolences go out to the entire Bernie Mack family, and also to his T.V. family who will miss him so much. I felt like he was part of my own family when I learned of his untimely death. He will truly be missed, and loved always. God Bless and Keep you Mr. Bernie Mack.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Taureau Maison, Virginia Beach, VA — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 14:24:54 GMT

Bernie Mac was the MAN! He will truly be missed. He was REAL. His comedy was based on life and it doesn't get any more real than that. I'm glad I've gotten to enjoy his comic genius. My sincere condolences to his family. God bless your soul.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Ginger, Los Angeles, CA — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 15:19:13 GMT

SO SAD! SO SAD! At the prime of his life and career. Bernie Mac will be deeply missed. God wanted him more. What a traumatic loss but we must love one another because we never know when it will be our last time together. Bernie Mac was surrounded by his wife, daughter and family when he passed so he know he was loved. I am praying for his family to gain strength.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Leisha Hardley, Houston,Texas — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 18:20:10 GMT

My thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Mac's family as well as all of us who loved him and loved to watch him daily on the Bernie Mac Show. We never know when our loved ones will leave us,but take comfort in knowing who's he is and where he is. I will never forget him and I hope that they will continue to air his show. And I know he's in heaven cuttin up and making people laugh!!

Leisha Hardley

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Alexandria VA — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 04:05:00 GMT

Farewell to someone that will greatly be missed. Comedy will never be the same without him. He was truly a natural.

Farewell Bernie, we hardly knew ye

Pete, Chicago — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 20:45:28 GMT

Bernie Mac wasn't just a so called stand up comedian but as by his actions in how he conducted his life,
A STAND UP GUY!