Not too long ago I was riding past the site of my old high high school, Pleasantville High School. To see it now you wouldn't think a tree stood there let alone a rectangular prism-like building. But a building sat there. And speaking of shapes, a building that undoubtedly shaped me.
Strange considering I hated high school. In spite of the numerous activities I was involved in, being on the basketball team, and being a good student, I hated it. Probably, the best part of my day was the morning when I would do the morning announcements. Had no idea then I would be making a good part of my living doing the same thing, using my voice to announce things about people, companies, etc.
My afternoon treat everyday was hearing my television production teacher (for whom I did the announcements for) shout out how he "wasn't doing anything for the teachers." In other words, he was tired. Yet, he reneged on his word every time. That was just the kind of guy he was.
Mr. P. perhaps I owe my voice acting career to him. He left us too soon. That's my trip down memory lane.
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Yes, summer is coming to an end and I am happy. Quite happy. Summers are unpleasant for me and not just weatherwise. This summer was interesting. I spent the first half of it in New York starring in Ed Miller's Make It So. While the critics were tough of the show(even me at times, just being honest--and I don't care) he audience gave me rave reviews. On one Saturday night, I received a standing ovation. I can tell you it's been some years since I have recived one of those from the house. I worked with some terrific talent. Here are some of the thoughts of those I worked with.
Producer and Playwright, Ed Miller: Thanks for coming along with us on this journey. You're a fine actor.
Co-star-Nnamudi Amobe: Hey man I really appreciate your compliment. It means a lot coming from you. Everytime we shared scenes together you put me at ease and that makes my job a lot easier! As for the reviews, eh, I kind of feel the same way about them as you do...I've learned over time to not let reviews affect your performance, regardless if the reviews are good or bad...I was/am very poud of the work we've done together and we've been the one's in the trenches not the critics....so yeah man, it was great working with you and hopefully we will cross paths on stage again. That would be nice.
Co-star Kelli Jo Reid: Hi Leonard, Thank you so much, that really means a lot to me.
I admire your work ethic so much and it truely has been a pleasure. Please keep me informed on everything you do in the future.
Shortly after, I started taping for Mom Wake Up. I play Coach El, real proud of the role and it really plays to my strengths. So, I have been acting this summer and that's a good thing. Still summer's are not my delight and I am looking forward to the fall and winter, football and the spirit of the holidays. Not the holidays themselves, but the spirit of them.
And who knows, I may do some more acting.
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Tue 10 Jun 2008 |
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What is the meaning to life? |
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Someone once said that life is defined by the joy you have received and the joy you have given.
The following is exemplary of this. It's a true story that happened just yesterday (May 3rd)
It says a lot about the kind of people I surround myself with and even more about Emily Rosely, a good friend and my personal photogrpaher. Emily, thank you for sharing this story.
I was in the Wawa today, picking up a few things. I turned to see what the next person in line was buying. The Hispanic woman behind me had a small coffee and a sandwich. I asked her, "Is that all you're getting?" and she automatically replied, "Yes". As I sometimes do, I asked the clerk to ring her order up with mine and paid for it.
The woman didn't know what to do, how to react. She said, "Oh, no. You don't have to do that!" I just smiled and told her, "We live in a difficult world. Each of us needs to do what we can, when we can, to make it just a little bit easier. Pass it on."
She just stood there, looking at me like I had lost my mind. I laughed and handed her the sandwich. She just stood there. I said, "Ok, have a nice day!" Finally, she snapped out of it and thanked me, several times, and left.
This is the kind of stuff that makes me feel good.
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