To the man whose life and works built the foundation on which I stand:
John Rawson Sibley
October 7, 1926 – June 24, 2012
He taught me in words, but more powerfully in deeds, that we are all one family, that every person I meet is my sister or brother, that each of us has infinite and equal worth and value.
And that, given this truth, we can only respond to the world as it is with fierce compassion, a fire for justice, and a desire to alleviate suffering wherever it is found.
He modeled a hunger for and delight in connection across differences of race, class, religion, language and culture.
He dared to imagine a better world, to see visions of what was possible, and to give his all in pursuit of a dream.
He inspired me to shine.
I only know him through his reflection in you and, my, is that shine bright and brilliant. Thank you John R. Sibley for giving us Annie.
What a lovely tribute to your Dad. He has left a lovely legacy in you, Annie.
Holding you in my heart,
Cathryn
This is a lovely tribute to your father. I have appreciated your articles in The Bulletin. This morning I was "interviewing" my African American character on why he was trying to reach out and connect with a Caucasian girl. You captured his sentiments in "Building the Bridge." I just signed up for your blog and look forward to more of your insights