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The Thomas Jefferson Discussion Group
of Orlando, Florida
Meeting No. 52 -November 15, 2005
Holiday House Restaurant, Orlando, Florida
THIS MONTH'S TOPIC:
REFLECTIONS ON "FOOTSTEPS"
I can’t recall a group visit I’ve enjoyed more than the one this week from the Thomas Jefferson Discussion Group of Central Florida.
This is the way Dr. Dan Jordan, President of the Thomas Jefferson Foundation, began the note I received from him soon after our return from the memorable "In the footsteps of Thomas Jefferson" tour. Eight of us pilgrims began at Monticello in Charlottesville, Virginia, on Monday, October 24, where we were treated to a day packed with the life history of the author of our Declaration of Independence. But even more than this, I was struck by the quality of the people who are the stewards of one of our country’s most important legacies – Thomas Jefferson’s home. We were treated to true Southern hospitality by Dr. Jordan and his wonderful staff.
Leo Buscaglia was fond of saying that we begin our lives with a book of blank pages - each day we fill in a page in that book. We have little control over the number of pages in our book, but considerable control over what is written on each page. The older we get the more filled pages we have to “thumb through” and reflect on - some bring sorrow, some bring joy – all provide a opportunity for learning. In my book the page of October 24, 2005 will be one I will treasure and cherish for the rest of my life.
We’ll talk more about our trip and the group’s plans for 2006 tonight at about 6:30 at the Holiday House, in the La Quinta Inn at the intersection of I-4 and Lee Road. Hope to see you there.
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