Al and I have enjoyed travelling to many places around the world. A few weeks ago, Al was asked what his favorite place was and he responded "Nepal" without hesitation.
Our lives were so enriched after our month stay in Nepal. From our experiences in the market places of Kathmandu, hanging out in Durbar Square and contemplative moments at the Bodhnath Stupa, a holy Buddhist site, we were like sponges just trying to take it all in. We were deeply grateful for "coincidentally" being in Kathmandu during the celebration of Maha Shivaratri, the annual festival to honor Shiva, at the Pashupatinath Temple. Here we were in the company of tens of thousands of pilgrims, seekers and sadhus making up the human mosiac that is Nepal.
Then it was off to Pokhara and into the mountains. After experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the local people, despite their meager means, he was in love.
The mission of the Nepal Trust embodies Al's belief in low-impact activities as a solution for sustainable living.
Many of you are aware of his reduce, and recycle philosophy, exemplified at his annual summer party, and a core value in his everyday living. He saw reuse potential in most any item, and found great joy in effecting this.
He was a true student of the world, and his belief in education, whether through a traditional classroom setting or by other, less structured means, was a hallmark of his life; through reading, travel, employment, and cross-cultural social interaction. His open and accepting manner won him friends around the world.
Al's long-standing interest in renewable energy is endorsed by the Trust. His sixty acre farm was a draw to the wood burner in him. Installation of solar electric panels at the family cottage at his beloved West Carry Pond embodies his belief in alternative energies.
A gift to the Trust in memory of Al will reflect his compassion for the people of Nepal and extend a helping hand across the world.......and we thank you.