I wrote about Roger Ebert's courage back in May of 2009 and now there is a wonderfully written article about him in Esquire. He knows that he is dying "in increments" as the article states and shares this quote
I believe that if, at the end of it all, according to our abilities, we have done something to make others a little happier, and something to make ourselves a little happier, that is about the best we can do. To make others less happy is a crime. To make ourselves unhappy is where all crime starts. We must try to contribute joy to the world. That is true no matter what our problems, our health, our circumstances. We must try. I didn't always know this, and am happy I lived long enough to find it out.
I continue to be amazed by his ability to stay removed from self pity and refusal to be marginalized due to his illness. I can not recommend this article highly enough as inspiration for all of us. Cheers to Esquire for publishing it.
I believe that if, at the end of it all, according to our abilities, we have done something to make others a little happier, and something to make ourselves a little happier, that is about the best we can do. To make others less happy is a crime. To make ourselves unhappy is where all crime starts. We must try to contribute joy to the world. That is true no matter what our problems, our health, our circumstances. We must try. I didn't always know this, and am happy I lived long enough to find it out.
I continue to be amazed by his ability to stay removed from self pity and refusal to be marginalized due to his illness. I can not recommend this article highly enough as inspiration for all of us. Cheers to Esquire for publishing it.