More Hidden Notes

01.  Aris Allen

No, not the dance shoes brand, but a remarkable person that I'm proud to say I knew.

One day in the 1980's a tall, distinguished-looking Afro-American man suddenly appeared at a Toastmasters meeting.

He said that he wanted to become a better public speaker.  That was a bit hard to understand, because he had represented Anne Arundel County, Maryland in Congress in the 1970's, where he served as the Republican majority whip.

Although we were of different political persuasions, we became good friends.  As part of Aris' Toastmasters membership,  Aris regaled us with stories of his interesting life.

He spent his early life in segregated Texas. He delivered newspapers from his bicycle and did odd jobs until he located to Washington, D.C.  He attended Howard University and received an M.D.  Through the years he administered to the poor and needy.       

One day, Aris did not show for a meeting.  I found out that he had been diagnosed with cancer.  He did not want to put his wife through all of the problems that cancer treatments would entail, so he committed suicide at the age of 80.

There is a statue and a thoroughfare dedicated to him in Annapolis, Maryland. 

Rest in Peace, dear friend!

                                                                                    02. Old Age

Cicero wrote:

"Each part of life has its own pleasures.  Each has its own abundant harvest, to be garnered in season.

We may grow old in body, but we need never grow old in mind and spirit,

We must take a stand against old age.  We must atone for its faults by activity.  

We must exercise the mind as we exercise the body, to keep it supple and buoyant.  

Life may be short, but it is long enough to live honorably and well.  Old age is the consummation of life, rich in blessings."   

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