Tuesday, November 3, 2009
I first met Ted at his and Renate's beautiful wedding. I could tell they loved each other dearly. I noticed that they demonstrated not only a deep sense of devotion to each other but also a commitment to the cultivation of mutually-reassuring and ever-rewarding companionship. They were very good friends! My mom Wilma considers Renate to be her oldest and best friend. We were both grateful to attend the wedding. We were glad that we got to meet Ted. My mom thought he was a charming gentleman who was very friendly to us both. I thought highly of Ted. He was an interesting man to talk to. He made perceptive comments about the business operations and employer-employee relationships at his workplace. He had a wry sense of humor. I could also tell that he was a spiritual man who cared about others, not just those in his own family but also those in the world at large. I'm glad that I had the chance to visit Ted and Renate at their home in Sarasota. When I arrived, Ted showed me to their sunny "Florida room", where Renate and Ted served two very nice meals. Ted had relaxing music playing in the background. He really seemed to value the positive effects of listening to music. He swept around the room, adjusting fans while standing against the backdrop of dappled light created by the palm leaves inside and out. From the backyard, he gave me grapefruits and oranges to take with me. Although our visit was short, I will always remember that pleasant day. I thought that Renate and Ted had made a lovely home for themselves in Florida. Although I wish I could have spent more time with Ted, I'm glad I had the chance to get to know him. I know that he will be deeply missed by Renate, his family, and many, many others.
