A long time ago – in the early 70’s – it became clear to me that the public school system was teaching my kids that they were bright because they were white. So we pulled them out of school and took them across the street to St. Agnes School in Bond Hill.
That school was a miracle in the community. The community itself was already a miracle, with leaders emerging for the community council, the business group, community education and the community development corporation. And the school, run by Sisters of Mercy, was a part of all that ferment and fun – a place of serious work, with lots of love and understanding.
The two main miracles in the school were Sr. Rita Charles, the principal (now Flo Edelman) and Judy O’Bryan, who became son Brian’s favorite teacher ever. In fact, she became Brian’s Godmother when he became a Catholic at 11 years old. They remained friends over these many years, with phone calls and visits. And two weeks ago, a friend dialed the number for Ms. O’Bryan, so she could say good-bye from Hospice.
As soon as Brian found out where she was, he sped out to Hospice, but she had already lapsed into a coma. He met all her family, and spent the night, just keeping her sleeping self company. And last Saturday he went to the funeral.
A beautiful friendship like that doesn’t end just because one of the friends is gone from the planet. Blessings to both.