George

There have been a lot of times in my life when George Carlin was the only voice that reached me. He talked me down, roughed me up, and made me laugh even when I thought I never would again. He showed me what true natural brilliance is. He was so smart, so funny and so right about everything that he could make me laugh until I sobbed, no matter where I was, how I was feeling or who glared at me.

George was a kind man who was not particularly kind toward people. He constantly reminded us of how stupid and uptight and totally useless we can be. But during my darkest hours, when I stood on the edge of the abyss and thought, Why not?, he gave me reasons to step back. George spoke directly to my soul, and dared me to do something even stupider, like keep living. If a species like ours can produce someone like George, there is hope for us.

Hope died last night. He was 71.

George, you and I were supposed to grow old together, so I'm beyond pissed that you went first. I expect to see you on the other side, still giving God and the Devil a hard time when I get there. Goodbye, pal.