I got to know TomI got to know Tom through the years by being with him at Peace and Justice meetings and demonstrations. However, I really got to know and deeply admire him during the last months of his remarkable life. Having sat with Tom in his home talking about his illness, his hopes and fears, "walking" with him on this difficult journey, showed me the depth of his remarkable spirit. He courageously worked hard to understand what was happening to his body and how to manage all the symptoms of his disease and the side effects of its treatment. We talked a lot about his love for his family and his concern about what his illness would do to them. This was evident in the family meeting we all had so that we could talk openly about needs and fears. He also expressed concern for the world, even as his world narrowed. Courage, dignity and compassion are the words I would use to describe Tom. It has been an incredible privilege to companion him these last months. His illness caused his body to die but his spirit clearly lives on in my life and in others. With appreciation for this remarkable man, Phyllis B. Taylor |