It was so odd. I had written a piece for one of the other publications I write for, on the 100 greatest comedians of all-time. Obviously, George Carlin is on the list. And, two days later, I find out, at age 71, he has died from heart failure. He was going to be coming to my town for a show in a month, too.

When he was here last year, I tried to get his autograph. But, he didn't make it before the show. And I didn't see him in concert, so I couldn't get it after the show.

One time, our magazine printed his address. I didn't have an 8 x 10, so I sent a magazine page from The Prince of Tides, a truely underrated film. He played the gay best friend of Barbara Streisands character. I sent a letter saying his performance was great, and should've garnered an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor. He sent a letter back thanking me, and signing the picture.

It was a little wrinkled. You see, I had merely folded it and put enclosed a self-addressed stamped envelope. But now, it will be one of my treasured autographs.