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My Tribute To Rocky Balboa
Dear Rocky,
During the last week in May and the first week in June, 2008, I had occasion to watch all six in the series of Rocky movies--and am I so very glad I did! For, although I know you're only a fictional character (based partly on fact), created and portrayed on screen so ably by Sylvester "Sly" Stallone, to me and many of your fans you are just as real as REAL can be!
In my opinion, your character is, by far, one of the greatest, most admirable, and most noble ever to have graced the silver screen. As one reviewer so aptly put it, you are "one of the greatest cinematic heroes of all time." I believe you will endure for as long as there are movies--and people to watch them.
So, I just wanted you to know, Rocky, that--as Adrian said, as Mickey said, and as Paulie said--I love you, and these are the reasons why:You were the good Dad I never had, but wish so much I did.
My prayer is that God would send more Rocky Balboas into the world, because, at this point in time, the world so desperately needs them.
Unlike so many professional athletes, you were not a womanizer.
You loved your wife, and treated her with tenderness, courtesy, and respect.
You never let your fame and fortune interfere in your relationship with you wife.
You loved your son, and treated him with gentleness, kindness, and patience.
You had a wonderful sense of humor.
You didn't curse or swear.
You didn't smoke.
You were brave and courageous, even in the face of seemingly overwhelming odds.
You knew what your goals were and worked hard to achieve them.
You were caring and compassionate.
You were a man of faith, and looked to God for help and strength.
You grew up in poverty, but didn't let it keep you down.
You were a fighter, not a quitter.
You tried to steer young folk in the right direction, having their best interests at heart.
You were humble, never haughty or arrogant--like some of your opponents.
There were no racial, religious, or class distinctions to you, only people.
Though you made your living engaging in a violent sport, you were neither a violent man nor a lover of violence.
You were honest, sincere, and played by the rules.
You had heart--miles and miles of it.
You were a wonderful role model to untold numbers of men and boys.
And, finally, you were so many of the things I wish I were, but aren't.
If I can say just one more thing, it would be this:"Yo, Rocky, ya did good. Thanks!!!"
With best wishes,
Dudley Delany, R.N., M.A., D.C.
http://profiles.yahoo.com/dudley_delany
LINKS
Total Rocky
Movieprop.com's Rocky Site
The Rocky Saga Yahoo! Chat Group
Video of Rocky's Advice to his Son
Video of Stallone Meeting Rocky
Wikipedia.org's Rocky Site
Send E-Mail to: dudley_delany@yahoo.com
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