Jan. 28: Beauty and Brains

Well-known for her beauty, actress Hedy Lamarr had another side.  Growing up Jewish in Austria, Lamarr was fascinated by science.  Later on in Hollywood, since she wasn’t they type to party, she looked for something to occupy her time.  She discovered that she had a talent for inventing.

Obsessed with helping the war effort—especially after Nazi submarines sank a cruise ship of British schoolchildren in 1940—Lamarr invented a radio guidance system that could help the U.S. military.  Though it was too difficult to implement, it would become the precursor to many wireless technologies we use today, including Bluetooth, GPS and cell phone networks.  It wasn’t until the 1990s, when Lamarr was in her early 80s, that her pioneering efforts were recognized and honored.

Every life is multiple-faceted, with interests and gifts able to make life better for all.

Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father.  (Matthew 5:14)

You have planted Your spark of life within me, Lord. May I honor this great gift.