TV & Showbiz

The Dick Clark Debate: Year 2

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Last Updated on September 16, 2019

TVSquad asks, “Is it time for Dick Clark to hang up the microphone?

Some people say that it is, because his slurred speech caused by a stroke he suffered three years ago makes him too depressing to watch. I suppose I can appreciate that point of view. His condition today, though seemingly improved from his condition last year, is still a far cry from the ever-youthful “America’s teenager” we remember.

Then again, the man is 76. Sooner or later, the “teenager” nickname had to wear off.

Personally, I hope he stays with the show as long as he feels he is able. I think he’s an inspiration to people who have suffered strokes or other neurological damage, and who might otherwise feel that life is hopeless or that they no longer have the capability to do whatever they want to do in their lives. If Dick Clark can come back from a stroke to host a national celebration on network television, there’s probably not nearly as much as one would think that falls into the “impossible” column.

Granted, I’m a little more melancholy by nature than the average person. So unlike all of those revellers who want to get blitzed out of their mind to the point that they’ll never even remember what they were doing at midnight, I like to think I’m a little more grounded.

To me, seeing Clark and the progress he has made since the stroke, is a reminder to me that we never know how long we’ll have. No matter how successful, how rich, how admired, or how loved, we’re nothing more than mortals. As the late John Connelly, former Governor of Texas, said, “You never know how long you have.”

Maybe such a reminder might inspire people to live a little better over the next twelve months. Maybe it will inspire them to take an extra moment every now and then to spend with their loved ones.

There are probably fewer more important messages to ponder as the clock strikes midnight.

the authorPatrick
Patrick is a Christian with more than 30 years experience in professional writing, producing and marketing. His professional background also includes social media, reporting for broadcast television and the web, directing, videography and photography. He enjoys getting to know people over coffee and spending time with his dog.

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