The year 2019 began quite differently with an interesting (for me) medical challenge. As some of you might have heard, I underwent heart surgery right after Christmas to correct a defective aortic valve that I’ve been aware of for the past three years. Although free of outward symptoms, the surgeons at Boston Medical Center determined that my leaky spigot should be replaced with a new piece of pig tissue. Naturally, the jokes from friends have been nonstop, along with many thoughtful encouragement notes and phone calls. I’m feeling great! Within a day of my recovery in the ICU, I could sense that the ticker was working better. Each day has been better than the day before. The only annoyance is the requisite babying and length of time required for the chest to mend itself together. The nursing care at the hospital and at home from my beautiful bride did the trick. I’m now good for another 500,000 miles. Thanks to all for the well-wishes and prayers.
While convalescing, I reread a quote about leadership I’d like to share. How apt it seems when considering the slew of sophomoric statements emanating from the District of Columbia by a number of our elected federal officials. (it’s embarrassing)
”May I stress the need for courageous intelligent and dedicated leadership…leaders of sound integrity. Leaders not in love with publicity, but in love with justice. Leaders not in love with money but in love with humanity. Leaders who can subject their particular egos to the greatness of the cause.” In January we celebrated the ninetieth birthday of the author of this quote, Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr.
Although we’ve been spared those tremendous snowfalls so far this year, that mid-January freezing rain and zero temperature spell was a real kick in the pants. Many local businesses rose to the occasion performing exceptionally in clearing their sidewalks. Unfortunately, a couple of stores greatly disappointed their neighbors. Mission Hill Main Streets always places great stock in quality snow removal when selecting its annual “Golden Broom Award.” The prize is bestowed annually at our awards night and much sought distinction. Many in this neighborhood face ambulatory challenges. Making the sidewalks easy to use is common sense and good for business…enough said. A well-deserved Mission Hill Tip-of-the-cap goes to former Gazette editor Peter Shanley as he moves on in his journalism career. I recall my onetime neighbor, former U.S. House Speaker John W. McCormack joking that the most underappreciated office in the world is local elected school committeeman. Everyone feels they know a better way for you to do the job, and they aren’t afraid to tell you. That job description sounds a lot like the role of local newspaper editor. Peter always struck me as a thoroughly decent and fair fellow with an open mind and gentlemanly manner. Wherever he goes, those qualities will serve him well. Thanks for all you’ve done for Mission Hill. Bravo. Go, Pats!