I can remember seeing the Superman movies in theaters so many years ago. For an entire generation, Christopher Reeve embodied Superman in all his glory. Even when Superman III and IV were released and failed miserably, Reeve's portrayal and following came away unscathed. Why? I think because there was truth in him. Truth in character, truth in spirit.

Wouldn't it have been a monumental shame if Reeve had not previously been an actor--a superstar no less--and we would have never seen his struggle?

After years of physical therapy and what must have been an epic mental and spiritual struggle, Reeve began working his way back into the spotlight. Not one to give in to his condition, he directed, he acted and received honors and tributes the world over. His determination to overcome and his inspiration were like none the world had ever seen before. He spoke out and appealed to the government to continue research, in the hopes that one day a way to repair his body would be found. Unfortunately, he would never walk again, but his pure, sound strength of will was amazing.

In his recent appearances on Smallville, it looked like Reeve might have found a new home to continue his craft--and in such close proximity to that which made him a star. It was obvious that he'd never be able to play Superman again, but to see a sort of "passing of the torch" to a new hero for a new generation was so genuinely touching.

For him as an actor, I'm sure it was frustrating that he wasn't able to shake the character of Superman, but part of me thinks he came to embrace it after his accident. Fortunately, this also gave him the perfect venue to educate the public and reach out to those suffering from handicap. Wouldn't it have been a monumental shame if Reeve had not previously been an actor--a superstar no less--and we would have never seen his struggle? It happens everyday, maybe to someone you know, but now the world has had a chance to see it up close and now it's up to us to take action.

It is said that it's best to remember those who have passed not by how they were last witnessed, but how they were at their greatest height of glory. I believe Christopher Reeve was and will always be Superman and a super man.