My brief return to Guyana

Two weeks ago I made a short visit to attend Brian O'Toole's funeral in Guyana. Brian and Pam inspired Pat and I so much, with their decades of contributions to education and literacy in their adopted country. I was grateful to be able to share our condolences with the family, and to hear the many tributes to Dr. O'Toole including from the President of Guyana.

Recordings of the Friday evening reflection (President Ali at 1:51) and Saturday funeral (son Liam's eulogy at 2:22 and our tribute at 1:36) can still be accessed.

I also had the opportunity to drop off a book at Guyana's National Library, and several copies at Austin Book Services in Georgetown.

The book's title was inspired by the 'pebble in the pond' metaphor used by Guyana's then Prime Minister Hamilton Green (see p.48), when a health project was first proposed thirty-five years ago. He was anticipating that great things can start from small beginnings, and he was right.

During my recent visit, I wondered if Hamilton Green was still around. To my delight, several of us were able to visit him in his art-filled home. He is 91+, with fading eyesight but still a sharply focussed mind.

Here we are with Laureen Pierre and Jennifer Dewar.

Thank you Hon. Hamilton Green for your inspiration and hospitality!

With librarian Sandy Thompson at the Guyana National Library

With Hon. Hamilton Green, Laureen Pierre, Jennifer Dewar at Green's home.