There are some special people you cross paths with in this journey called life. Not special for who they are or the titles they may hold, but because they are kind and generous, forthright and upstanding. These are qualities that set apart the wheat from the chafe, the ordinary from the extraordinary.
Mr. Gordon Harper Sr. was a man who possessed these qualities in abundance.
There are some special people you cross paths with in this journey called life. Not special for who they are or the titles they may hold, but because they are kind and generous, forthright and upstanding. These are qualities that set apart the wheat from the chafe, the ordinary from the extraordinary.
Mr. Gordon Harper Sr. was a man who possessed these qualities in abundance.
I remember as a child, about six years old, traveling in his Mini Minor on what seemed like great adventures. Although not related by blood, he always treated me like family; he was like an uncle to me looking out to ensure I came to no harm and letting me know when I was moving off the right path.
I remember visiting Guyana in 1990 and parking in front of a local eating establishment in Robb Street. I heard a booming voice shout “Young Hall” and turning round there he was, ever attentive, spotting me on the road, and stopping his car to come over and envelop me in a great big hug. He still wanted to know how I was even as an adult and I appreciated that he cared.
He and my father were both police officers and good friends from the 1950s and Mr. Harper and his wife were Godparents to one of my brothers. The friendship was maintained over these many decades and whenever my parents visited Guyana they made it a point to look him up and visit for a spell. When I shared the news of his passing with my father this evening, there was a prolonged silence. The hard realization set in that his comrade and friend would not be there to reminisce about the old days, and raise a toast to their friends who had gone on before. For my father his trip to Guyana later this month will be a visit tinged with sadness at the loss of a lifelong “buddy”.
Rest in peace Mr. Harper, as Shakespeare said, “All the world’s a stage and every man must play his part”. You certainly played yours, as you left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of knowing you. Thank you for your caring and sharing, you will forever have a special place in our hearts.
