David Carradine a Generations Icon is Gone

David Carradine a Generations Icon is Gone

Sad, disillusioned, upset are the emotions traveling the internet and news reports upon the release of David Carradine’s suicide. David Carradine was an Icon to those who watched the television Series “Kung fu” in the 1970’s. His career spanned over four decades, with appearances in over 100 films and hundreds more appearances on TV. Yet, Mr. Carradine’s recognition as “Asian Monk” remained as his perpetual Icon. So why is it Big news that David Carradine committed suicide. After all, why it may be news in LA (Hollywood) or amongst the TV actor’s world, why does Boise, Idaho care?

The reason David Carradine’s suicide death impacts so many is because of the enormous success that “Kung fu” had on a generation who waited anxiously each week to observe the Eastern Religion portrayed by David Carradine. Kung Fu was not simply an action show, rather a demonstration of values of a simple monk. The strength of the Character was never about his ability to “kick-butt” but utilizing force only for the protection of others. (Like King Arthur, “Might for Right, vs. Might is Right”) The characters’ values were rarely motivated by personal greed or personal advantage. David’s representation of Eastern Philosophy, values and ethics were presented in a sincere and honest fashion. The audience could have easily laughed at such a concept if it were not for the honest and diligent performance of this actor. Bottom line we watched a actor deliver a performance each week that inspired, educated, delivered a moral victory and exposed us to a new culture with respect and dignity. The out cry from all across the country in response to David Carradine’s suicide is because we remembered and embraced a strong performance delivered in a manner that touched our lives and made an impact.

Now comes the realization that David was not an Eastern monk, but rather a Actor and for whatever reason he felt a pain and/or emptiness that could not be resolved within himself and he decided to stop the pain in the most absolute way possible, killing himself. There will be hordes of speculation as to why, maybe even a TV movie, assuredly some books. But the realities are, yet another person who had fame, money, celebrity demonstrated to the rest of us that these earthly possessions will not provide happiness and peace of mind. That is the ultimate teaching of any Eastern Philosophy. Thank you again, David Carradine.

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