In memory of Larry Hagman

The news of the death of Larry Hagman on Friday included remembrances of his past work, such as I Dream of Jeannie and Dallas. Personally, I didn’t watch these shows and they aren’t the first things that come to mind. There was one memory of Larry Hagman I have and it still resides with me to this day.

Years ago, I had seen him in an interview where he was describing advice his psychiatrist had given him “Don’t worry, be happy.” This advice was life changing to Mr Hagman. He immediately took these words to heart and it became his motto. However, just hearing the words wasn't enough for him. He wanted to share this message with everyone. He made a large sign proclaiming these words. He added Feel Good and displayed it outside of his Malibu house at the time.

I don’t know what it was about this simple message, but it stuck with me. Even to this day, if I notice I’m feeling the blahs, I think of these words and I actually do start to feel good and happy (I’m still working on the “don’t worry” part!). I could be cynical and think of course he would feel good living in beautiful and opulent Malibu, but surroundings don’t dictate how you feel.

I’m saddened that he lost his battle with cancer, but I have a feeling he kept his motto close to his heart and obeyed it to the end. May he rest in peace.

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