This is a prayer spoken by Rev. Arlene Bodge at the dedication of a plaque to honor former selectman, Herbert R. Hancock.
FOOTPRINTS ON THE PATH
We are told that life is a journey and that we follow in each others footsteps. Now, there are not so very many people that I would want to follow that closely. Herb Hancock’s footsteps I would follow.
I would walk in the footsteps of Herb the fisherman, and take time to listen to the silence of the sunrise, and like him, I would expect wonder upon wonder and be ready for anything to happen.
I would walk in the footsteps of Herb, the optimist, expecting not only a big catch, but the best life has to offer, believing that every day has the possibility of something new.
I would walk in the footsteps of Herb, the responsible, and, like him , faithfully meet each obligation with out pride or boasting.
I would walk in the footsteps of Herb, the artist and carver, trusting in my ability to see and create beauty.
I would walk in the footsteps of Herb, the truth teller, telling my truth with the knowledge that I had thought long before I had spoken.
I would walk in the footsteps of Herb, the gentle, harming no one, never needing to raise my voice.
I would walk in the footsteps of Herb, the anchor. Strong and steady, sunk deep, immovable, so that no storm without can affect the peace, harmony and tranquility within.
And then I wonder whose footsteps Herb walked in? Given the life he lived, I think it must have the the footprints of another fisherman who long ago walked the shores of Galilee.