Thank you, Mark Twain and Hal Holbrook. I teach freshman English. And at the beginning of the semester, I make a comment to the effect that if you (my students) spend enough time in colleges or universities, you will meet someone who will show you what a human being can become through education. These people are not exasperated by those of us who do not know as much as they do, nor are they intimidated by domineering personalities at their level of study. I've met them; they leave a lasting impression. I mention that I have read comments by both types of people on this list over the years, more of the former than the latter. Yesterday, I threw my scheduled lesson out the window in favor of a better idea. I asked if anyone knew what the significance of the day was and offered a ton of points for the correct answer. No one knew. They did, however, know I have an abiding interest in Mark Twain because I lace quotations of his throughout my lectures and presentations. Then I told them that years ago I saw the original broadcast of _Mark Twain Tonight!_ on CBS. (I also mentioned that if I'd known Mr. Holbrook was performing in Elmira sooner, they would have had the day off.) The evening's performance years ago left a lasting impression on me and many other people I tell them, referencing comments made in this forum. For the next ninety minutes they paid more attention to Mr. Holbrook/Twain than they ever did to me no matter how many points were in play. I think it was the best lesson I never taught. Rick Bardon -----Original Message----- From: Mark Twain Forum [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of K. Patrick Ober Sent: Wednesday, April 21, 2010 9:38 AM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: Re: Thank you, Mark Twain Among the many, many Twain celebratory pieces that are appearing today, here is one that I think Forum readers will enjoy....it seems to capture the spirit of the man exceptionally well.... Pat Ober=20 http://mormontimes.com/mormon_voices/susan_mccloud/?id=3D14469