Wednesday, April 24, 2019
In his quiet persistence, Richard taught those around him the benefits of the patient and diligent search for truth and for positive change in society. He taught us as well that education has no end and that we should be open to learning from varied sources, including from those whom we seek to teach. Richard, in a sense, was the embodiment of this 2000 year-old maxim in the section of Talmud known as the Pirke Avot: “Let your house be a meeting place for the wise; sit humbly at their feet; and, with thirst, drink in their words.”
The Albany community has lost an extraordinary physician, teacher, humanitarian and activist. When access to universal health care, envisioned by Richard, becomes a reality (and we are edging ever closer), Richard’s dedication to that cause will be acknowledged as a major factor in bringing that about.
