I learned of the unexpected passing of James Leck. There was not a more patient, kind or generous soul in our field. Today, my thoughts are with his wife, family, colleagues in Boston, friends, students, and all the people who he deeply touched over the years. I will never forget his witty sense of humor, sage advice and joyful laugh. I hope that those who are mourning his passing find some peace through this poem.

 

“For All Who Mourn” by Arthur Guiterman

That he was near to you so many a year

But darkens you distress.

Would you he were less worthy and less dear

That you might grieve the less?

He was a golden font that freely poured

What goldenly endures,

And though that font be gone, its bounty stored and treasured,

Still is yours.

The past is deathless.

Souls are wells too deep

To spend their purest gains.

All that he gave to you is yours to keep

While memory remains.

Who never had and lost forlorn are they

Far more that you and I

Who had and have

Judge not the price we pay

For love that cannot die.