Tribute to a man who looks like Lou Gossett Jr.

I saw "Chappy" himself, Mr. Lou Gossett Jr., in a Minneapolis skyway this week.

At least, I thought it was him at first.  Those striking, driven eyes that give a hint of warmth, that muscular build, the commanding 'stache – the resemblance was uncanny.  As we passed each other, I couldn't hide my expression of "can it be?!?" excitement.

In response, he met my eyes with a stare that was obviously intended to communicate one of the following sentiments:
1) "I know you know who I am, but it's too early to speak to me, OK kid?", or,
2)  "I may have appeared in Touched by an Angel, but I was in Iron Eagles I-IV.  I can destroy you and your will to survive with one punch."

After some thoughtful consideration, I decided that Lou Gossett Jr. was unlikely to be found in the Minneapolis skyway system at 8:04 AM on a Thursday morning, especially not dressed in workout clothes.  Wouldn't the real Mr. Lou Gossett Jr. have been accompanied by one or more security specialists to manage the inevitable mass of adoring fans?  Wouldn't he have been wearing some fine threads, and perhaps talking to his agent on his cell?  Also, this gentleman appeared to be approximately 5'10".  Everyone knows that Mr. Lou Gossett Jr. is at least 6'2" (and possesses superheroian qualities of strength, wisdom, and righteousness).  This gentleman was a look-alike.

My most profound and humbling realization about this whole event?  My excitement about seeing Lou Gossett Jr. himself was pretty high (at least for that time in the morning), but it was nothing in comparison to my genuine and ongoing glee in knowing that a man who looks almost exactly like Lou Gossett Jr. is out there, living, breathing, and walking amongst us.

--Jay Bauer-Clapp