Dear Sonny,
Do you remember as a child, how you celebrated Roosevelt’s victories?
They were victories for all people and all times and celebrated things like,
Freedom of speech.
Freedom of worship.
Freedom from want.
Freedom from fear.
That was a long time ago, but the values and victories still remain true. We have allowed the mobs to take over. We have abandoned Democracy. We need leaders who pursue justice and democracy. We need citizens to recognize that their greatest power is to vote. Practicing democracy, means that every vote counts. It is the only way justice can be brought forward and exercised. You once said “I regard myself as a beautiful musical instrument, and my role is to contribute that instrument to scripts I find worthy of my instrument.”
As you begin your 90th trip around the sun Ed, don’t forget your instrument! We live in an age of polarizing agents and agendas that command our Jewish attention. And sure you find yourself waking up most days feeling little hope and going to bed filled with anger… just don’t forget your instrument!
One more thing. Never stand still. Unless you are learning something – then only stand still long enough to learn, and once you stop learning in that stance, move off. As long as you feel the temperature rising, it’s best that you keep creating. It makes you feel wonderful, warm and secure.
It always has!
Shana Tova, old man, Happy New Year!
Ed
Ed Asner is an award-winning actor and dedicated activist.
