Today, as I pulled into the parking lot at work, I heard the news that George Carlin, the man who introduced me to “funny”, died last night. I grew up listening to “Class Clown”, “Occupation: Fool”, and many other Carlin records. I watched nearly all of his cable specials, and even had the extreme good fortune to meet him briefly in Vegas.

In the late 80’s and early 90’s, George seemed to switch from “humor used to educate” to political ranting, which turned me off from his stuff for a while. But I always appreciated the comical genius that showed us how ridiculous we can be, whether it was related to religion or race relations. Carlin was the man who introduced me (through his routines and his shows) to some of the funniest people I have ever watched.

It is probably fitting that today is grey, overcast, and rainy. I somehow think that George would prefer to go out while the country was enveloped in a Canadian low…..

Rest in peace, Mr. Carlin. Thanks for the laughs.