Remembering Nora Ephron

Nora Ephron was one of my favorite writers. I hate that some people called her movies chick flicks, because her writing was so sharp, witty and universal that both sexes could (or should) connect with her.

I was twelve the first time I saw When Harry Met Sally. I laughed so hard, at tines not even knowing what I was laughing at. Twenty years later, I am still watching -- and learning -- from that script. How to tell a story, explore personal relationships, create compelling chracters (both male and female)...Nora Ephron is a master-class.

Sadly, Ephron and I had more in common that just being straight to the point, sharp-tongued souls. We both had leukemia, and I wish she had been as lucky as me.

Ephron is the second great writer I know of who died of leukemia. The first was my college professor and friend, Venable Herndon, who continues to inspire me.

Why leukemia happens to the great ones is something I'll never comprehend. Just don't cheapen our legacies with the phrase chick flick.