JANUARY 11, BRIGHT AND DARK WITH THE VOLUME TURNED UP
Today is the anniversary of the birth of two of the most special people on the planet. One is young and blond, full of kindness and curiosity, born in Iowa. The other is not quite so young, a bit darker with just an attractive tad of gray mixed in, also full of kindness and curiosity, combined with the strength of Fort Knox, born in India. Every time This day is observed, I am profoundly thankful to share my time on earth with these special folks. You know who you are.
Today is also the anniversary of the day, the world as we knew it cruelly dispatched a little boy who deserved a hell of a lot better. Maybe it's kind of silly, but every year at this time, I stop by his little grave and catch up with him on the last year. I still talk to him as if he's a little boy. He'd be 31 this year.
The strange part to digest is that the two dear people who have birthdays on this day had to share the horror day with me 27 years ago. Everlastingly, January 11, brings me the best of love and friendship and the most piercing reminder of the potential for human depravity.
The good news is the love and friendship lets you get past the depravity.
posted by UMRBlog @ 16:02
4 comments
4 Comments:
Adamo spiritus mei frater.
Alan's short and tragic life touched many people in many ways. His death breathed new life into the then struggling effort that would result in Quanada. Maybe it would have happened anyway - but probably not as soon or as well done - we probably would have missed the "window of opportunity" for the redirection of the Woodland Home facility and resources -and missing that would have probably cost another 5 to 10 years at least.
Whenever I'm going west on Maine and get to the curve by the cemetery, I look to the left and remember. (I don't do it going east - go figure?).
I know of many in the "human services" community whose lives were touched by his death - whose commitment was strengthened and awareness sharpened.
Next time you're talking to him, let him know.
Man that Heeger guy is really telling it like it is about you lawyers.
1119,
Thank you for good way to look at it. I'll tell him.
Post a Comment
<< Home