Thank you Paul Newman

Respect = Paul Newman

After hearing the news about Paul Newman's death this morning on NPR, my heart was saddened.   I was trying to put into words what his work and life meant to me.  I found Dax and Jason's words touching and comforting to me.  They both honored him beautifully.  I just want to add a couple of thoughts.

I have seen so many movies in my life.  Sometimes they fade but I still remember the first time I saw Paul Newman in  Hombre.    I remember seeing the opening scene with his blue eyes jumping out at me from the screen.    I think that particular role stuck with me because he played a man that didn't fit in either of his worlds, the one he grew up in and the one he came from.   I think I felt like that myself.  His character was not a perfect hero.  You know what I mean those perfect heros that most of us can't relate to and never seem to make mistakes.  His character has his own demons and yet when he was faced with a decision finally did the right thing.  On some level I saw that maybe I too could stand up, do what is right, and defend others who weren't strong or were being unfairly treated.   I hope in my own small way I have continued to do that.  

I remember someone saying,  "When you know more, you must do more."   Each time  we learn of injustice or a struggle it is our responsibility to stand up.  Tell some else, support those oppressed, speak out.   I first saw Paul Newman play that part and then I watched Paul Newman do that in his own life.    

Yes I will remember so many wonderful performances that I saw of Paul Newman all through my life.   I feel honored to be in a profession that has members of his quality and courage.  When people have been blessed what matters is what they do with that blessing.   

Mr. Newman.   Thank you for being a leader for all of