For those who've missed this, Randy Pausch was a Professor at Carnegie Melon University (CMU) who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the summer of 2006.  I say "was" a Professor because Randy finally succumbed to his illness on Friday, dying at the age of 47.

However, none of this is what makes him special.  What makes him special is the way he dealt with this diagnosis, and a prognosis of certain death.  Randy did what we all like to believe we'd do, but I for one am not sure I'm strong enough to do.  He dealt with it head on.  He didn't shut down, withdraw, and just fade away.  He accepted his fate, understood it, and then proceeded to continue living. 

This is epitomized in his amazing Last Lecture. 

You see, it turns out that CMU has (or I guess had) a lecture series called the Last Lecture.  It's purpose was for professor's to deliver a lecture that would be what they'd want to say if they could only give one last lecture.  Well, for Randy, it really was his last lecture.  And it's great.  It's long (over an hour), and if you think you don't have the time to watch it, trust me, you are wrong.

He truly did leave an enduring legacy.  I just hope I don't forget it too quickly.  Especially the part about being meeting Captain Kirk.  :-)

RIP

I've tried for a few hours now to figure out how to frame this.  I can't, except to say that it touches me, and I hope that we all never forget the sacrifices made by others far more brave and courageous than I could ever hope to be.

George Will: The Knock on the Door.

Lt. Col. Jim Walton, West Point Class of 1989 - RIP

What could I possible say about this man that countless people haven't said better.  Instead, I leave you with a clip.  Yes, Tin Conway does the heavy lifting in this one, but one of my favorite things about watching Korman was watching him try not to laugh.  :-)

Earl Woods died today at the age of 74.

"My dad was my best friend and greatest role model, and I will miss him deeply," Tiger Woods said on his Web site. "I'm overwhelmed when I think of all of the great things he accomplished in his life. He was an amazing dad, coach, mentor, soldier, husband and friend. I wouldn't be where I am today without him, and I'm honored to continue his legacy of sharing and caring."

RIP

We're going to miss you.

RIP