RIP Superman

I haven't exactly known what to say about this until this morning. I think I might have been in a bit of denial, and maybe even a little angry. I know I can't be the only person to whom Christopher Reeve was synonymous with Superman. I can confidently say that Reeve was one of my heroes, and very likely top of the list (I never really kept track). I was devastated when I learned of his accident that cost him his freedom and a great deal of his dignity, and I wasn't the least bit surprised when he used his stature and influence to lead the fight for stem cell research that might one day lead to quadraplegics regaining the use of their extremities. He fought for better insurance protection for those that suffer injuries like his.

Even bound to a wheelchair and unable to talk for very long, Reeve had never stood taller or spoken louder. He was never more a Superman to me.

MSNBC has more details on Reeve's death, but I can't say how incredibly unfair it is that ultimately, Superman was taken down by an infection. As much as I know that we really shouldn't idolize people, I don't think anyone was more deserving than Reeve. I think that might be why I was angry last night, because he didn't deserve to go out this way. I was waiting for the day that Reeve would walk again, and I knew that if anyone could overcome that injury, it was him.

Rest in Peace, Christopher Reeve. The world is much worse off without its Superman. My thoughts and prayers will be with his family today, and for some time to come.