Debra’s surprise for my birthday, tickets for our family to hear Jane Goodall speak in Portland, was foiled when the venue was changed. The organizers called our home to tell us about the move, and I answered the phone! It was just as well. I knew that Jane was going to appear on a local TV morning show on the day of the lecture, and I planned to go meet her myself, anyway. I took along one of Jane’s many books that I have read to get her autograph. This book, Visions of Caliban: on chimpanzees and people, co-authored by Jane and Dale Peterson, inspired me to write the poem below, “Key to Survival”. I took a copy of my poem—to share with the author whose life’s work inspired me in so many ways.
After Jane’s charming visit with the host (late, great Jim Bosley, “The Boz”), the TV audience was invited to meet Jane in the wings for autographs. I waited my turn, a little nervous about giving my poem to an author and scientist of such enormous fame. Jane signed my book. And when I told her about my poem, she gave me such a warm, grateful smile and she immediately introduced me to her videographer, Bill (of Oregon City). Jane told Bill about my poem, and they both looked forward to reading it. They thanked me with welcoming smiles. On top of the world, I made my way home, hardly able to wait for the evening speech.
That afternoon, my phone rang. A man’s voice asked if he was speaking with the Tim Brown who met Jane at the studio. Stunned, I said “Yes” and was thrilled to hear Bill tell me how much he and Jane loved the poem! Emboldened, I shared with Bill that I had written a little longer piece—my story Bentari. Without hesitation, Bill asked if I could bring him a copy tonight for him to take back to Africa. “Yes, yes . . . of course!”
A few weeks later, I received a note in the mail. This is what Bill shared with me about Bentari:
“Great story! Certainly deserves to be published. Girlfriend loved story also. Will try to have Jane Goodall read, too.”
He also sent me a small feather—a symbol Jane relies on to remind us that no matter how high we fly, we are carried on the wings of others who have supported us along our way. Thank you, Bill, for your strong wings!
I also send plenty of thanks to another generous person, artist Jennifer Doheny. Jennifer is the creator of HELLO FRIEND (see below), a chimpanzee portrait on old book pages in wax, dye, pen and pencil. Jennifer graciously allowed us to use her artwork here. Please visit Jennifer’s website: http://jenniferdoheny.typepad.com/ to see “Jennifer Doheny’s art and her overall interest in creating a magic Earth.” We also encourage animal and art lovers to visit Jennifer’s online sales outlet at: esty store.