I seldom ever get teary-eyed about the loss of celebrities and/or so-called "Icons".
So why am I so emotional about Steven Sondheim's passing?
He made me fall in love with theatre - especially musical theatre.
In my humble opinion, even though he is gone, he is still the heart and soul of American musical theatre; because in the lyrics of every song he has written, I see someone (including myself) I know/have known...Love/hate...would go to hell and back for/wouldn't walk across the street for.
Lin Manuel Miranda comes the closest to doing that, AND... is the heir apparent to continuing Mr. Sondheim's legacy, because, like Sondheim, Miranda's talent, heart, and soul is found in people in his stories.
Mr. Sondheim... though it would embarrass you to have it said about you, you will - you are -- going to be missed.
May God's grace bless you, as you have blessed us.
Loren Marsters