Amazing story about Lincoln, isn't it? I had never heard about that side of him--so much about men, great or ordinary, we don't suspect. I know a construction worker who plays the piano much better than I do, and who plays other instruments as well. I discovered this by accident. I would never have guessed his creativity embraced so much. Wonderful essay, Tom, and moving.
Thanks Allen, glad you found it interesting. Lincoln was an interesting sort. Very socially skilled. There was a White House Christmas party once and a notoriously obnoxious woman approached Lincoln and his friends. She looked at him and said "President Lincoln don't you find your legs are far too long?" (Lincoln was over 6'4" i think) Lincoln calmly responded "No madam, I have always found them the perfect length to reach the floor!" Everyone laughed and moved on but the nasty woman had to eat her own venom while the others enjoyed the Christmas spirit. We can all learn from this and find ways to turn attacks into humor and move on.
Amazing story about Lincoln, isn't it? I had never heard about that side of him--so much about men, great or ordinary, we don't suspect. I know a construction worker who plays the piano much better than I do, and who plays other instruments as well. I discovered this by accident. I would never have guessed his creativity embraced so much. Wonderful essay, Tom, and moving.
Thanks Allen, glad you found it interesting. Lincoln was an interesting sort. Very socially skilled. There was a White House Christmas party once and a notoriously obnoxious woman approached Lincoln and his friends. She looked at him and said "President Lincoln don't you find your legs are far too long?" (Lincoln was over 6'4" i think) Lincoln calmly responded "No madam, I have always found them the perfect length to reach the floor!" Everyone laughed and moved on but the nasty woman had to eat her own venom while the others enjoyed the Christmas spirit. We can all learn from this and find ways to turn attacks into humor and move on.