When people ask me about my hobbies or passions, I am oftentimes at a loss for an answer. There are tasks or rituals that I enjoy doing like running, cooking or reading. But sometimes what I’m passionate about is not a concrete thing, but a state of being. Like the sense of accomplishment I feel after running a long distance, how wide my smile stretches after hearing a good joke, or feeling empowered by reading someone else’s story in a biography or book. Sometimes my passion is admiring others who live their lives with more gusto than I could ever muster.
In a world of millions there are few people that have the power to shine farther and brighter. It takes a certain amount of trust, respect, and hard work to get your light to shine into millions of people’s homes every weeknight in the pitch-black darkness of 1 AM. Jimmy Fallon is one of those people who have that ever glowing, radiant light. That light carries laughter into our hearts, capable of making a bad day better or bringing hope for a better day tomorrow. Almost five years ago while in college, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon made late nights, study breaks, homesick weekends or “I’m going to strangle my roommate” moments a little more bearable. Fallon took the mundane talk show and made it a cornucopia of comedic monologue, celebrity game show, live concert, and hilarious dramatic improv sketch. It was a continually growing and evolving being. But what truly contributed to the show’s success was its leader. Fallon lets the rest of the world share his uncontainable energy. He laughs at himself, making his audience laugh with him. He shares his passions, daring us to keep from smiling when he does. It’s contagious. Last month the Muppets helped Late Night’s host go out in a way that only he could go. Who else could sing along with a bunch of puppets, engaging adult and child alike in a farewell ballad. And it was the only way that made sense, displaying Fallon’s true character and charm. His new gig as the host of The Tonight Show is a step up, a new beginning. Despite making the move to the studio next door, and getting accustomed to the words “Tonight Show”, these first few shows have proved it’s the same old Fallon. And I’m glad for it.
So take some of that unbridled enthusiasm, that contagious joy and apply it to your life. Letting your light shine might make your day or even someone else’s day better.
These photos are from The 2013 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade that I took while visiting New York City this past November. Jimmy Fallon,The Roots, Big Bird, and friends can been seen jamming to music and spreading smiles on the Sesame Street float.