Roots and Shoots

People Who Make A Difference
Have you ever met a notable person who made a difference in your life?
More than 45 years ago, I met Maria von Trapp(1). I was in Women’s Government and we’d invited her to address our members at the annual dinner meeting. I’ve never forgotten how graceous, intelligent, and calm she was for all the harrowing experiences she and her family had. I was impressed at how energetic she was “at her advanced age”. (I realize now that she was at that time, younger than I am right now!) “The Sound of Music” helped popularize and romanticize their plight.
Does anyone not know of Jane Goodall(2)? I’ve read several of her books and the biography by Dale Patterson and became interested in the Jane Goodall Institute’s program for youths called “Roots and Sprouts. It would be awesome to be able to experience the huge, flapping doves at a youth, peace rally.
If I met Dame Goodall, I’d give her a hug. Maybe I’d give her a copy of my children’s book “Green Trillium” to show her my little contribution to the conservationn of our planet. Her on-going perseverance, reasons for hope, and a focus that her life does matter is a message that has made a difference in my life.
(1) Maria Augusta Kutschera von Trapp; B.26 January-D.1905-28 March 1987.
(2)Dame Valerie Jane Morris Goodall (B.3 April 1934), ‘Roots & Shoots’ members participate in the annual Roots & Shoots Day of Peace by planning group projects that promote peace and by “flying” Giant Peace Dove puppets made out of recycled materials.
Contact: the Jane Goodall Institute, Roots & Shoots program, 4245 North Fairfax Drive, Suite 600, Arlington, VA 22203 USA; phone: 800.592.JANE.