[dekeguy]

I agree that we should mourn the passing of a substantial talent and have deep sympathy for her, but I am somewhat taken aback by the volume and extent of praise and adulation heaped upon someone who misused drugs and alcohol to such an extent that she instrumental in her own death.
I would suggest that we pray for her, as I did when I heard the news, and then try to view this as a cautionary tale that there are consequences to acts of self destruction. Responsibility attends one's actions.
Sincere sympathy - yes! Prayers - yes! Praise and adulation - somewhat inappropriate.
Let us remember her, let us feel for her, but at the end of the day perhaps praise and adulation are more appropriate to someone a bit more like Mother Theresa of Calcutta.
Now, considering that I believe absolutely in the infinite mercy of Our Lord I am confident that Ms. Houston, along with Mother Theresa, is safely home with Our Lord in Heaven. So, no I am not playing the awful game of holier than thou. I am saying that one can have love and sympathy for her without holding her up as a role model to be emulated.