The Measure of a Man

I have just finished reading "The Measure of A Man - A Spiritual Autobiography", Sidney Poitier's latest book, a truly joyful read.

Born into abject poverty, Sidney rose above his humble beginnings to become one of Hollywood’s most influential, fascinating actors.

Sidney Poitier shares the story of his life and of life in general. Passionate, honest and inspiring, The Measure of a Man: A Spiritual Autobiography discusses the need for simplicity, strong parenting and values like artistic integrity, faith and courage.

Poitier encourages searching for true joy, which comes not from destructive amusements, but from being genuine, living by your convictions and taking risks. Poitier always carried a sense of self-worth, simple ethics and family values. He would become a pioneer in 20th-century cinema, playing memorable characters in meaningful films.

He broke through as a star in acclaimed performances in American films and plays, which, by consciously defying racial stereotyping, gave a new dramatic credibility for black actors to mainstream film audiences in the Western world.

In 1963, he became the first black actor to win the Academy Award for Best Actor - for his role in Lilies of The Field. The significance of this achievement was later compounded in 1967 when he starred in three very well received films - To Sir With Love, In the Heat of the Night and Guess Who's Coming to Dinner (my personal favourite) ... making him the top box office star of that year.

38 years after receiving the Best Actor Award, Poitier was chosen by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to receive the Honorary Award in recognition of his "extraordinary performances and unique presence on the screen and for representing the industry with dignity, style and intelligence.

He was appointed a Knight Commander of the British Empire in 1974, which entitles him to use the title "Sir," though he chooses not to do so. He has also served as non-resident Bahamian ambassador to Japan and to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

One of his favourite quotes ... "If you apply reason and logic to this career of mine, you're not going to get very far... The journey has been incredible from its beginning. So much of life, it seems to me, is determined by pure randomness."

He was careful to nurture his career by refusing to accept roles that detracted from his dignity as a human being, choosing his spots carefully, but taking advantage of the opportunities that arose beginning in the 1950s.

A truly inspiring book by an inspiring man who lead an inspiring life.