[Oe List ...] Fw: Vance

[Marianna Bailey]

Our son, Tom asked that we forward this to the OE Community.

> I first met Vance in 1967 and our paths crossed many time over the next 
> few years.  Those encounters greatly impacted my life and, to this day, I 
> carry those memories with me.  In fact, not only did the events affect my 
> life, but they helped define who I am today.
>
> My first memory of Vance is playing catch with a football out in the 
> courtyard on the westside of Chicago.  On Sundays, we would go out to the 
> park,along with George Walters and Steve Townley.  Here came Vance, 
> wearing an old football jersey and lacing up some old cleats.  I was 16 at 
> the time and I recall thinking that he was too old (mid-30's) to be 
> playing.  Little did I know.  I learned the lesson of 'vitality', age 
> should not be a limit to what you want to do.  Those days of chasing down 
> the football also gave me a sense of normalcy within the stress and 
> confines of Order life.
>
> I heard Vance speak numerous times over the next couple of months and 
> years.  I found him to be a man of peace and introspection.  Vance was one 
> of many who guided and mentored me when I decided to become a 
> Conscientious Objector during the Viet Nam war rather than taking a 
> student deferment.
>
> We found ourselves together again at Camp Canada.  Although I was only 19, 
> he gave me a tremendous amount of responsibility.  Not only did he listen 
> to what I had to say, but he respected my ideas and actions.  His trust 
> taught me that responsibility is not to be controlled by a few, but given 
> to all.
>
> One of my favorites...the broom collection!  Who would think?  He was 
> telling me, "dare to be unique".  I started my own collection about 10 
> years ago, though nothing near what Vance had.
>
> For me, to honor Vance is to remember where I came from, know who I am, 
> and have a vision of what I can be.
>
> Peace to All!
>
> Tom Bailey, Tarboro, NC
>