Not often enough
Often not at all,
Words, sentiments, thoughts, feelings
Are not communicated,
To convey admiration, gratitude, simple appreciation.
This is one such moment,
Where the source of inspiration…
You, my friend Louise
Will read at your leisure
The measure of all that you have invested,
As a friend, colleague, unwitting mentor.
Three years ago in particular, collegiality forged a new path
Through unchartered terrain,
The roads ahead unmapped
The risks undefined, you led the charge,
Armed only with your passionate commitment and unfaltering belief
That service to learners, to learning…was the noblest cause.
Unassuming humility, the most attentive of listeners, perceptions honed
The exemplar personified, taught far more than the wisest sage,
Much more than articulate scholarship.
Forgive me my friend, for in a moment of weakness,
Those many years ago, challenged vision
Momentarily swayed by the persuasion of youth and inexperience,
Bowed shamefully to pressure unfounded.
Fortuitously, fortunately, good sense stood steadfast,
Prevailing over flawed judgment, and as I watched,
The dawn of realisation, supported your relocation
So that your integrity of purpose and profession
Recast itself with your determination, your conviction, your compassion.
You continue to inspire, with your courage, your indomitable strength, your faith.
The floodgates of constant callers…
Family, friends, colleagues, associates, fellow worshippers…
Testament simply,
To the wonder of Lou!
As a gentle wave washes soothingly through our senses
So too does your presence in our lives
And for all of this and more…
We are grateful.
...............................................
"Thank you, my dear friend T, for this piece which is moving and humbling for me. You have touched a special place in my heart today and I thank God for your life and pray that you will be blessed in abundance."
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