In my mind's eye I see a group of people - my Pantheon of Greats, I call them. These are people I admire, those who always come through, always deliver. Some are celebrities, some politicians (yes), some just regular garden-variety folks. It's a select group which has strict entry requirements.
My father was my first hero, and even though he's been gone from this earth over 16 years, he continues to inspire me. He was thoughtful, fair and the most decent man ever born. No one will ever live up to him. Isn't that what most daughters think? For me it's still true.
I have mentioned before how much I admire anyone who works with animals for their good. They really are all angels.
Denzel Washington is one who thrills me with his talent and I heard Tom Hanks say about him, "He carries his integrity with him 24 hours a day." I like Tom Hanks too, for that same reason.
Also, in my pantheon is Tyler Perry. For those of you who aren't familiar with him, he's a writer, a movie and television producer/director/actor and a survivor of a very hard childhood. He has risen above all obstacles and now employs several hundred people. He's also the character of "Madea" - a brassy, loudmouthed woman who says what most of us only think. I love Madea.
I felt that way about former governor Ann Richards, too. No matter your political persuasion, you have to admit she was a force to be reckoned with. Years ago, my sister and I went to a political rally for her, and the atmosphere in the room was electric. When she came up to the microphone, you could feel her presence, and it was breathtaking.
Those who fall from grace sometimes deserve a second chance, depending on what they've done. Kevin Spacey, the actor, was in my pantheon until all those allegations of misconduct came up. He's so talented...but his alleged personal improprieties were too much for me. And I'm mad at him for taking that away. I enjoyed having him in the group. He doesn't get a second chance, I'm sorry to say. Matt Lauer, Paula Deen, my 7th grade math teacher - they're outta here.
We can all do better, don't you think? A current slogan says "Humankind - be both." It doesn't cost a nickel to be nice and considerate, so why aren't we all? Of course, if someone treats you unkindly, sometimes you have to respond. But generally, let's agree to be both human and kind. What do you think? Hey - I'm talking to you, birdbrain! Yes, you - the one with the attitude!