For today and only for today, here are two stories. One is sorta bizarro but the second is a nice and personal one. First, the bizarro one.
On this day in 1978 silent film star Charlie Chaplin’s body was stolen by a couple of grave robbers in Switzerland. No lie. I’d try to explain it but just (click here) and read all about it for yourself.
It’s more than a little ironic that Chaplin in death was every bit as controversial as he was in a life marked by controversies both personal and professional. A bitter divorce, a messy paternity suit, a couple FBI investigations, getting banned from the USA and at 54, marrying an 18 year old, Charlie was definitely a rock and roll kind of guy. (Click here and scroll down to Controversies or if you have the time scan thru his whole life story.)
Here is a quote most often attributed to him as one of his more famous of quotes:
The second and personal note I wanted to pass along is today is the birthday of my oldest Ryan Angela who lives in Maui and works as a sports trainer. Love you Ry and here’s hoping you have a very happy birthday with lots of laughter!
And speaking of ironies – that shirt I am wearing in this photo is one that was given to me by Ryan’s namesake Sister Mary Angela Shaughnessy. At the time (early 90’s) Sister Mary Angela was teaching at Spalding University in Louisville and the shirt was one commemorating an event that Spalding held each year.
Just now when I did that Facebook thing to check in with her, I see that Angie has taken a Lenten break from FB. What a good idea that I may have to steal! (I’m sad to report however, that my spiritual maintenance would take a lot longer than the 40 days of Lent to maintain and repair it.)
From one of Ryan’s and my favorite artists, and just because we all need some redemption every now and then, here’s the other Bob: