Originally Posted by SilentKnight

As a kid of 8yrs. old - I was in a school playground in '72 listening on a tiny black transistor radio as Paul Henderson scored the winning goal against the Russians in the '72 series. I still remember that moment as if it were crystaline.

So just a few years ago I heard he was hosting a speaking engagement at a local collegiate. I was hell bent on meeting him, shaking his hand and thanking him for such a great childhood memory.

I had just pulled into the empty parking when I saw a big white cadillac pull in a few rows away. Out climbs Henderson...by himself. No staff, nothing. Just he and I in the parking lot. I got outta my car...walked over just as he was opening the car trunk, and we struck up a conversation. I was star-struck...but managed to keep my cool. He asked if I would help him carry his pamphlets and brochures into the building. I was delighted, it gave me more opportunity to chat more one-on-one with the hockey legend.

He's not just "people". He was a boyhood hero that scored one of the greatest goals in the history of hockey...and at time that I ate, breathed and slept all things hockey. He was an extremely gracious and friendly guy...very down to earth. And despite hearing tens of thousands of stories from people telling where they were and what they were doing when he scored the goal...he politely listened to my story...and thanked me at the end for sharing it with him.

"Who gives a fuck...they're just celebrities"?

Some celebrities transcend merely celebrity status...and do something so great, it's just an honour to have the chance to briefly meet them...if only to say thanks for a great memory.