A Busch state of mind...

Most of you probably don't know but one of my hobbies is writing people who inspire me, entertain me, or just make me think.  Thats right, I put pen to paper and write them a letter...no e-mail here!  I have had a tremendous response to this hobby, many of the people I've written have been gracious enough to send me something back...sometimes an autographed photo, sometimes a handwritten letter, sometimes a typed letter, sometimes a letter telling me that they are too busy to respond (that makes no sense because someone sent that out and used postage on it), and sometimes I even get cool swag & autographed items (like books).  To explain how this started I have to go back in time.  It was right after the film Patch Adams came out on DVD.  I rented it and watched intently with my wife.  The story of Dr. Patch Adams was inspiring and touched some of the same beliefs I share (namely the power of laughter and smiles).  I decided to go to the web and find an address to write him.  I found an address and hand wrote a letter explaining that I shared some of the same ideas, that I was inspired by his story, and that I felt his purpose in life was extremely appreciated.  I put it in the mail and forgot all about it. 

Two or three months later I receive a big bubble manila envelope.  At first I thought perhaps the postal worker had the wrong address.  Looked at the label and sure enough it said "Brian Titus" with my address under it.  I started cutting into the top of the envelope and the first thing I notice is the girth of it.  I thought, "maybe the Jehovah's Witness is getting crafty...who needs to knock when you can deliver an entire book worth of information."  Then I read the title and author: 'House Calls' by- Dr. Patch Adams.  Opened it up, wow!  He inscribed it!  "To Brian, Spread Joy!"  It would be obvious to say I was hooked at that point.  I started to search for communities that make this a hobby and began creating a list of people (and addresses) that I could write to.  It has culminated to a book of over 80 items individual political figures, actors, entertainers, athletes, artists, people in the news, former presidents, and generally all around amazing people have sent me over the years (since 2001 when I started the hobby). 

Today was awesome because one of my favorite local legends in the art and comic book community was kind enough to send me a huge envelope of cool stuff from his swag bag (including a DVD and a book).  Matt Busch is a filmmaker, artist, author, and all around innovator...what a complete joy it was to get some really cool stuff from him!  He is currently working on his feature film Aladdin 3477, a futuristic/sci fi telling of the fable Aladdin and his magic lamp.  I am a BIG fan of his Hollywood Dead series where he takes noted films and their stars, creating original zombified versions in poster size.  Check out his work at http://www.mattbusch.com and give him a shout to tell him what you think!  He lives locally in Macomb, Michigan so I really can't wait to see him again at another Motor City Comic Con show.  Thanks Matt and let me finish this post by encouraging you to write (pen and paper) a letter to a friend, family member, or even someone you look up to today!  It will help your letter writing skills, your hand writing skills, and you may even fall in love with it like I have.  Live a fulfilling life!