Sunday, December 12, 2010

Finally, Another Final Post

When I told Philip Dodd, The Domesticated Bohemian, I was going to write one more final post, he said, “I knew you wouldn't be able to stop at 3.”

“I had the same problem with beer,” I replied, which was apropos to nothing except a bit of humor.

* * *

After Philip read that I've hung up my blogging hat, he proposed something called "The Charlie Award". In his words,

"To cut a long story short Charlie has agreed that I can put together and give an award in his name. An award for people who write insightful and moving posts. The idea is that it goes to people whose writing reflects a certain emotional maturity and insight, a generous approach to the human condition. People who aren't scared of writing something that exposes themselves, and touches us.

Not to be given out every week, but as and when deserved. A fitting tribute. Like an Oscar, people will be awarded a "Charlie". I from now on make it my personal mission to find his spirit in others and to cherish it and nourish it." [Italics are mine]

I don’t know how many times I’ve read a post that “touched me” and all I could do was make a lame comment about it in the itty-bitty comment window. That is why I’m endorsing this award: it recognizes a truly outstanding piece of writing by a blogging peer.

The fact that I had my head bronzed ala Oscar may seem narcissistic, but when I'm at the end of life's journey the spirit of the award will remain for all of you:


If you're interested in Philip's choices, you may want to follow him or put The Domesticated Bohemian on your sidebar. He's a very nice English fellow, he really is.

26 comments:

Sharonandphilip said...

Charlie,
There's clearly life in you yet. I doff my cap to the prof. I want you to find the fire in your belly to comment on dozens of these. And if your breath runs out then I promise to keep this going. I'm wearing a big smile. Take care my friend.

savannah said...

his first choice is a stellar piece entitled ray by/on a great blog called calling people names. well done and well done you for inspiring so many to do their best. xoxoxo

trina said...

very cool Charlie!
Thinking of you and sending lots of good vibes

hope said...

Well of course you deserve recognition for keeping us on our toes and FEELING.

By the way, your comment on my last blog meant MORE than you know! I certainly expect old Smokey to be sitting next to St. Peter, insisting that yellow tennis balls ARE TOO allowed in heaven. :)

Wandering Coyote said...

Wow, you really couldn't stop could you? This is great, and I think this award is an excellent idea. Just left a comment to that effect over at Domesticated Bohemian's site (dammit - another "must read" blog to add to my hundreds of subscriptions - that's on YOU, pal!!!).

Djanstewart said...

I just read the first Charlie Award post, and it is definitely brilliant. I have hopes that one day I might make it there, but I will enjoy reading them all, as the Bohemian has very discriminating tastes. Hugs to you, Charlie!!

Deanna Schrayer said...

Yes, yes, yes, yes! Gorgeous award Philip. I wasjust about to go to bed when I saw this, so will have to stop over tomorrow (brain dead now, doing good to type this). Thank you so much for carrying "the spirit of Charlie" onward!

Charlie....thank you, just thank you.

Joni said...

A few little words here and there couldn't hurt, just to let us know you are lurkin' around... And yes, an appropriate honor for one who has touched so many, Congratulations Charlie. :}

Faysoflife said...

I think this is a super duper idea. There is no one I'd rather see honored!

Brenda said...

I'm happy you're still with us, Professor, You still have much teaching to do. Sending you love....

Margaret said...

Hello Professor B,

Please don't stop blogging now. I think I have been led to you for a reason and I have no doubt that I can find glimpses of my past in your writing. I don't mean to make this about me because I certainly wish you well and I am so sorry you are ill and talking about the end. My eyes fill with tears and a lump is in my throat. Not only for you, but because I may have found you too late for my own good. I have just starting my blog in September for a place just to talk about what is on my mind, but I am finding that there are so many things I want to reveal to the world about my life. I don't want to do it for sympathy, but for a kind of therapy, I guess. I'm sorry to ramble on like this and I wish you the best.

Margaret

Syd said...

Sounds like a fitting tribute to you. I hope these aren't your finals though.

Robert the Skeptic said...

I'm all for a "Charlie Award"... and if there is a cash component like the Nobel, count me in.

Pat said...

Thanks to you I had already discovered Phillip and applaud his great idea.
As far as I'm concerned darlin' you can do as many farewell tours as possible - the more the merrier.xoxox

Mr London Street said...

It is a brilliant idea, by a brilliant writer, honouring a brilliant writer. Not just that, but the piece Philip has chosen is also brilliant, as is Alyson, the person who wrote it. Really, the whole idea resounds with brilliance - here's to there being many such awards and to you reading them all.

TechnoBabe said...

This is a great idea. I already like this guy and I haven't read his blog yet, but if he is wise enough to really get you, Charlie, then he is on my good list. Hugs to you.

M Witzl said...

How about a fourth last-post post? I'm in denial, Charlie. I keep thinking I'll be able to come back here and read your funny wisdom any time I like. But whether you do or don't, know this: I have come here, I have read, and I have liked.

Attila the Mom said...

Awww, that's really lovely.

Kevin said...

He's given you a lovely tan there.

I'm looking forward to your 43rd final post, if only for the dancing ladies.

barbara said...

Props to Philip for a lovely and loving idea! And you make a very handsome Oscar, I must say.

Ponita said...

Just waltzed over and read 'Ray'... very deserving of the first 'Charlie' award, I think!

Alyson said...

I became aware of your blog recently, thanks to Philip, and then he came up with "The Charlie Award". I thought it was a brilliant idea and a touching tribute. I've not read much of your writing yet, but I can tell you that I'm honored and humbled to be the first recipient of something that represents a man that is clearly very loved and respected. I look forward to exploring your archives.

Alyson

unknownmami said...

I think a Charlie will become a very coveted award.

Jeannie said...

A beautiful award with a very special spirit--nice one, Philip!

Meg/the other M name said...

I love you, Charlie. You've changed my life, believe it or not. You'll always be my favorite writer blogger guy.

Pat said...

My love best wishes for a happy peaceful time for you and Martha over the holiday.xoxoxo