I am here to answer the question. Evidently, I have the patience and the interest to answer as well. As I fell asleep last night I was imagining the taste of coffee and the sight of my kids the next morning. All of this suggests a very positive answer to today's question, although one tiny matter gnaws at me. I once asked a well known theologian, as we walked woods in Vermont, to give me the shortest definition he knew for worship. "One word," he replied, "Gratitude." Ever since, try as I may, I'm certain I fall short of being sufficiently grateful.

Norman Lear, 84, has enjoyed a long career in television and film, and as a political and social activist and philanthropist. He is best as the creator of Archie Bunker and All in the Family. He has founded several nonprofit organizations including People For the American Way , the Norman Lear Center at the USC Annenberg School for Communication, and the Business Enterprise Trust.