"Nothing came easy. I was born with a need to explore every tool shop of my mind, and with long searching and hard work. I became devoted to my restlessness." — Gordon Parks

Gordon Parks, one of the photographers who first encouraged me to pursue photography, died today in New York.

Parks covered everything from fashion to politics to sports during his 20 years at Life, from 1948 to 1968.

Gordon Parks was an extraordinary photographer, and more importantly, a sensitive human being with an intense passion for helping others. In 1961, his photographs in LIFE of a poor, ailing Brazilian boy named Flavio da Silva inspired Americans to recognize the extreme poverty that exists in many areas of the globe.

Parks' photo essay about Flavio was among the first I viewed in my photojournalism classes at the University of Missouri. His photographs inspired me because they were full of empathy and compassion. Gordon Parks showed me that photography can truly make a difference in the world. His photographs quickly brought donations that saved Flavio and purchased a new home for him and his family.

There is a wonderful contest held each year that honors the compassionate legacy of Gordon Parks. Enter The Gordon Parks Competition.

Read the full articles about Gordon Parks from CNN.

Anderson Cooper's Memorial.