Michael J. Fox aka Alex P. Keaton from "Family Ties," returns to the TV screen for a special that encourages Americans to stop acting like negative Nelly's.
You know the type, they doubt one day to the next, maybe it's the economy or the swine flu, but they're determined they're going to lose their jobs or end up in the hospital. Reality is, that might happen, or maybe it already did. But Fox, at 47, who's lived with Parkinson's disease for 18 years, continues to find reasons to smile.
"(Americans have) been scared for a while," Fox said, in a recent Associated Press interview. "Before the economy, it was the war and terrorism. And we reacted fearfully at first. But I think we're trying something new, now: It's not about duct-taping yourself inside your house. It's about opening your windows and seeing what's out there. In my own way, I'm cheerleading that."
Somehow, I believe him. Fox remains a strong advocate for a Parkinson's cure. (For more info. on his foundation, click here). He's written the memoir, "Always Looking Up," which also encourages a positive look at life.
And on the TV special, he talks with cancer survivor Lance Armstrong, plays golf with Bill Murray and treks to the Himalayan nation of Bhutan, where happiness is a national priority. He also joins TV star (and Chicago Cubs loyalist) Bonnie Hunt at Wrigley Field -- where fans continue to hope their team might win a World Series in their lifetimes.
It's hope and simple pleasures that build up a nation, not tear it down. Take that, you realists. "Don't worry, be happy now."
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