Paul Thomas Trask
1943 - 2008
Charter Member Vienna Historical Society
Count the days of my years. More than 23,600 times I woke to the miracles of morning. More than 23,600 times saw the brightness of noon. More than 23,600 times sensed the soft coming of evening. I beheld the colors of blossoming fruit trees, smelled the perfume of the lilacs, and heard the singing waters of Mill Stream. I considered the glory of the lilies and poppies and stood still at the call of the loon on Flying Pond.
I was grateful for the gift of loving and being loved, for the tender loving care of my brother and sisters. Grateful for the time I spent in Vienna as a child on my grandfather's farm, enjoying the simplicity of life. I was grateful for the conversations with the likes of Clyde Waugh and Norman Waite, learning about their lives in Vienna – and for Beverly Smith's book to read while in my recliner, with the rain falling on the roof or the snow blowing past outside the window. I was grateful for the friendships of fellow Grangers and for the opportunity to perform at Union Hall. For the fireworks bursting over the snow-covered Mill Pond in 2002, for the blue heron fishing across the pond, and for the Canadian geese pausing in their migration. I was grateful for the greens of the forests, the golds of the fields, and the brilliant colors of the Maine fall.
I was grateful for the inspiration of old barns that stand as a monument to man's hard work and sensed their strength and beauty. Grateful for the power of the mind which enabled me to satisfy my curiosity. Grateful for a sense of humor to help me through the rough spots in life. Grateful for the smiles on the faces of those who took care of me. For the touch of a friend's hand, the laughter of a child, the wag of a dog's tail. Grateful was I for all of these things and for many more. Surely after 23,600 miracles, a person may rest in contented peace. Count the days of my years.
Adapted by Helen Wilkey
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Lucinda R. Lord
1919 - 2007
Charter Member Vienna Historical Society
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Burton D. Gilman
1942 - 2006
Member Vienna Historical Society
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