When I was little all I ever wanted to be was Richard Pryor. I knew it was impossible to grow up and be him, since he was already him, and was doing very well as himself. Still, I did grow up, and bent and shaped my life according to his. As a performer, I always think of him when I am on stage, sweating like crazy under the hot lights. I will never be as good as he was, or as important, but I will always be a tribute, and I will always pay homage. I am struck dumb with sadness at the news of his death, and my sympathy goes out to his family and friends, and all the fans out there like me, who loved him like I do.