Do you know any 85-year old women that are BBQ pitmaster icons? I didn't until I saw this hugely moving story about "Tootsie". She is like the quintessential American spanning the 20th century into the 21st. Born in the latter years of The Great Depression she personifies the grit that made The United States of America the greatest country on the face of the earth. A self-sufficient tough as nails type of survivor. And she has survived through great personal travails to become one of the best iconic figures in of all things: BBQ.
I really don't think you have to have an interest in BBQ to see the core of what this story is telling. It's the core of God-fearing humanity and survival instinct. That BBQ is a vehicle is just telling of how some things, food for instance, bring all people together. And together in a kind of unique harmony. To say Tootsie's story is inspiring is like selling the lady short. I think it's safe to say this is a must see for anyone who seeks inspiration in their life. The lady is a national treasure who simply does what she feels is her calling. It has sustained her and brings together masses like few American's have been able to achieve. As you might suspect she is totally invested in her craft and not driven by any financial gain. It's a pure story of a pure heart who has quite serendipitously touched thousands in a most positive way while giving her life real purpose. I think it's safe to say you will see few, if any, stories that run so deep and pure.
I have to say something personal at this point. I think there's hidden messages to all of us in Tootsie's story. Get back to loving your brothers and sisters and find ways that enrich lives by simply giving. For our politicians: shame on you for trying to make us all more regulated and dependent on Washington. We need our personal freedoms to achieve our own best selves. We don't need more handouts or regulations to hold us back. We need to return to core values and individual freedoms. When you have that opportunity we can all rise to a level that Miss Tootsie has achieved. Real freedom to bloom aMiss Tootsie has managed to achieve is the Great American Dream come true which unifies. Follow God's Golden Rule in all things, even BBQ, and we will all rise to the greatest versions of ourselves. Oh yes, this is that kind of story! I am inspired and uplifted by watching the story of one amazing American.
