The Freedom of Hearing
“The Emmy is given not so much for writing as for attitude, because freedom of expression and freedom of speech aren’t really important . . . unless they’re heard. So freedom of hearing is just about as important as freedom of speaking.
“It’s hard for me to stay silent when I keep hearing that peace is only attainable through war. There’s nothing more scary than watching ignorance in action.
“So I dedicate this Emmy to all people who feel compelled to speak out, and are not afraid to speak to power, and won’t shut up and refuse to be silenced.”
—Tommy Smothers, comedian, accepting commemorative Emmy award, 2008.
(Thanks to alert WORDster Becky Tallent)
(See Steve Martin and Tommy Smothers clip.)
(Thanks to alert WORDster Becky Tallent)
(See Steve Martin and Tommy Smothers clip.)
I think his last line is what your class is all about; "Truth is, . . . what you get others to believe." Sad but true.
ReplyDeleteWayne Linder