“Fair Play For Those Who Dare To Dream”

“Fair play for those who dare to dream.”

The quote is from Marketa Irglova’s Oscar speech for Best Original Song at the 2008 Academy Awards. The full quote is, “Hi everyone. I just want to thank you so much. This is such a big deal, not only for us, but for all other independent musicians and artists that spend most of their time struggling. This – the fact that we’re standing here tonight, the fact that we’re able to hold this – it’s just to prove, no matter how far out your dreams are, it’s possible. And, you know, fair play to those who dare to dream and don’t give up.

“And this song was written from a perspective of hope and hope, at the end of the day, connects us all, no matter how different we are.”

My favorite part of this story is that the quote was almost never heard. Market Irglova and her musical partner and co-winner, Glen Hansard, were “played” off the stage after Mr. Hansard’s very genuine and humble thank-you. However, host Jon Stewart invited Irglovea back on to the stage after a commercial break for her moment.

I love seeing grace in people, in this case all three involved. I fail miserably in emulating them.

Go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qx8yLvb0gZM for a video of their speeches.