tired fools

yes, the real world becomes more like the onion every day.

steve (croc-botherer) irwin died a while back and the memorial ceremony has just taken place at the zoo. up to 300 million people worldwide tuned in to watch.

“We have lost a friend, a champion,” actor Russell Crowe said in a recorded tribute. “It will take some time to adjust to that.”

And what did the prime minister say, oh yes, he attended too:

“Steve Irwin touched the hearts of Australians and touched the hearts of millions around the world in a very special way,” said Howard. “He did that because he had that quality of being genuine, of being authentic, of being unconditional and having a great zest for life.

“Throughout his all-too-short life he demonstrated a love for the two things that ought to matter more to all of us than anything else — his love of his family and his love of his country.”

and there were many others:

Later, as part of the public memorial entitled “He Changed our World,” actress Cameron Diaz said in a video presentation that Irwin was incredibly popular in the United States.

“I’ll never forget what I learned just by being around Steve,” Justin Timberlake said in the video presentation. “Not even what he taught me, just what I learned by being around him with animals. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you and he will definitely be missed.”

Actor Kevin Costner said Irwin put himself “out there” for everyone to see.

“He was fearless,” said Costner in the video tribute.

“He let us see who he was. That is being brave in today’s society.”

Fellow Aussie, Hugh Jackman, spoke of the croc hunter’s legacy. “I spoke with my son a few days ago and he said, ‘Daddy I think we should all be warriors like Steve.’ And I just said to him you’re absolutely right,” Jackman said.

The flags on the sydney harbour bridge flew at half-mast.