The 2024 presidential election motivated me to have a birthday do-over

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At the Pittsburgh Ballet Theater Pointe in Time Emerald Gala Today marks a week since my birthday.  Its occurrence is a tremendous blessing. Because all around us are reminders about the fragility of life. To that end, my brother, who always makes a point to celebrate me, took me to the Pittsburgh Ballet Theater's Pointe in Time Emerald Gala on November 2d. That was the beginning of my birthday celebrations. And then, on my birthday itself, I got a bit of a surprise... My actual birthday was tough. It was Election Day. And, I spent the day working polls as a part of an election protection effort. My efforts were designed to protect all voters. However, deep in my heart I love my AKA sister, Kamala Harris and I hoped for her historic victory. Then, much to my chagrin and despite my efforts—and those of thousands more—she lost. In my estimation, that loss was one of the greatest setbacks in human dignity in my lifetime.  The country elected a felon and self-proclaimed, racist, ableis
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How Bill Cosby Taught Me How to Be a Good Writer...

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Tonight, PBS aired the awards show of “Bill Cosby: Mark Twain Prize”. It was amazing to watch. Bill Cosby has amassed a significant body of work and has inspired many other performers. I am inspired whenever I see someone honored. However, Cosby’s award show was particularly moving.

As part of the awards show they aired excerpts of Cosby’s comedy routines and of “The Cosby Show”. Those excerpt and were enjoyable and enlightening.

Cosby is a gifted comic. That’s undeniable. However, his true gift was in describing everyday life in a universal way. It defied age, race, and religion. It defied everything! It was just real.

Cosby has so skillfully described the common aspects of humanity. Being a kid, being a parent, and being someone trying to make it, are common experiences. Cosby shared his story plainly and without pretense. That's notable. However, it is even more noteworthy because Cosby came of age when circumstance could have jaded him. However, in spite of it all, he was able to identify the universal human experience. Amazing!

Cosby’s honesty and transparency made all of the difference. Seeing his life portrayed on screen reminded me that reflection and courage are the essence of good writing.

Thank you, Bill. I hope that one day I am half as good.
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