For those who comment, we salute you …

Patrick Swayze’s Road House is the only reason I can think of to go to Jasper, Missouri. He frickin’ rips a guys throat out in the flick and epically proclaims, “Pain don’t hurt,” while defending the Jasper’s Double Deuce. Swayze plays Dalton, a world famous bouncer and a philosopher (he does tell his staff to “be nice.” Deep).

Swayze died this week after a two-year struggle with pancreatic cancer. I wrote a tribute to Swayze and Road House because it kicked my ass — and apparently every man in his mid 20s to early 30s.

In honor of Swayze, I’m giving the comment of the week to Monitor and Anonymous for their thoughts on Swayze’s death.

Monitor wrote:

If pain don’t hurt, what is this awful feeling that overwhelms me whenever I remember that Dalton’s gone?

And Anonymous added:

It is in my understanding, of Southwestern Missouri lore; that, Dalton was based on a real person. Who did in fact(?) work in a Jasper bar. Jasper and to a lesser extent Carthage were notorious and rowdy biker hangouts during the 60’s and 70’s, due to their proximity to Rt66. Although I quite sure the nefariousness was subjective.

Rest in peace, Swayze. And if anyone has the number for the real Dalton, e-mail me.