Yesterday, NORMAN LEAR, I repeat, NORMAN FREAKING LEAR — American icon, hero, creator of television that reflects America back to itself, television that is funny and truthful and bold, SOMEHOW WINDED UP AT MY PLAY. He apparently received applause just for walking into the theater. As soon as I got word that he was there, I immediately drove over in hopes of meeting him after.

At 95 years old, he was lovely and patient and kind and stayed after to talk to the actors. He said words to us like ‘stunning’ and ‘heart’ and we said words to him like ‘honor’ and ‘thank you’ and ‘wow’ and ‘Norman Lear.’ I can’t fully remember the moment so I’m glad I at least have a picture of it. I have never more fully felt a compliment. In it, I felt every year of my life. It even kicked me into the future, with a sense of responsibility. Keep doing what Norman did. (But also what he does. The man STILL produces TV.) HEY THANKS FOR THE CAREER DEFINING MOMENT, NORM!