Bernard took a cell phone and a cheap tripod and set up in front of the Chicago Theater to film an invite for Oprah and Gayle. He recorded that he would love to have them at his United States debut—his concert on June 6—and that he was saving them two seats right by his belly button as printed on his t-shirt.

Do you see the world through optimistic eyes? Do you think about the best possible outcome? Can-doers are very optimistic, and yet, they are realists too. Yes, there is the best possible outcome and things could go wrong. If the things that could go wrong are—in your mind—too great, you won’t do it. But, if the risks are properly recognized, you will try.

I was under four feet tall, flat chested, and loved mashed potatoes. My love for spuds came from some sage advice from a very special lady in my life. She had the biggest, whitest, largest cup-sized brazier that I had ever seen. After that weekly spin through the wash, that white elastic sling shot covered the entire dryer top.