I'm know I'm a bit longwinded, you guys, :angel5 but here's more of my thoughts after reading the Q&A:

Johnny is so down to earth and normal, and honest about mentioning what he feels are some of his personal shortcomings. I think its great that he's so open and honest with his fans as well as with himself. He knows who he is, he's comfortable with himself, and he's not afraid to confront challenges and work on what he feels are personal weaknesses or shortcomings. Of course we all have them, but we all aren't always able to recognize or deal with our faults or areas where we might improve ourselves and our skills, while maintaining our confidence and self-love. This I think Johnny has the ability to do so well, and he hasn't allowed success to go to his head. Sometimes, I think he may not fully realize (meaning he's modest and or not fully aware of) his own unique power -- but he's on his way.

La Tisha's question and Johnny's answer were quite interesting. To me and I'm sure for all his Angels, Johnny is already a superstar. He said, "I'm a figure skater." I suppose because figure skating is not considered to be that popular with all demographics in this country, Johnny feels there is little likelihood that he will become a major mainstream star and fave target of prazzi vultures. I certainly hope and pray he will never have to face that kind of circus atmosphere and that he will remain free to excel at what he does and lead as normal a life as possible.

IMO, there are a lot of complex reasons why figure skating is not considered to be very popular in U.S. -- chief among them the idea in the media that in order for fs to gain and maintain mainstream fan interest in this country, "knee-whacking" rivalries must abound. Another seeming drawback is the idea that "only women are fans." I think figure skating should stand on its own and be respected as a great sport. I know the reality is that economically, it's important to have a measure of mainstream popularity. I hope there is some middle ground where the fans and the sport can be more respected. When (if ever) the corrupt powers-that-be in the sport loosen their reins, it might be possible for the athletes to just shine and raise the level and profile of the sport. In the interim, Johnny is one of those rare athletes and artists like Michelle Kwan who help bring attention to figure skating because of their amazing abilities on the ice, while at the same time transcending the sport because of their unique human qualities.

I hope Pam doesn't mind my quoting from her heartfelt message to Johnny on the blog site Hila created. Pams words for me express a big part of why Johnny is so special -- his unique appeal goes beyond figure skating and medals:

"Johnny, The body's the bike, the soul's the rider/ Your body is the swan, my soul's the flyer/ Because you bare your soul, we glimpse that most forgotten reality, that we are souls/ ... You are a messenger who speaks to us of other dimensions, the heart, the spirit/ ... Who you are makes a difference in THE WORLD."


:JW4