My Sister Friend, Dr Faith Harding

Jan 25, 2015 Letters

Dear Editor,
I met Dr. Harding well over thirty years ago and we connected almost immediately. During this period we shared our ideas and opinions on a number of social issues in Canada but primarily in Guyana. She was big on empowerment and was passionate about the development of Guyana and its peoples. Over all these years we discussed politics, the plight of the family and in particular women’s issues both within the structure of family and women as single parents. As well, she being a psychotherapist, relationship issues were often at the top of our agenda. I enjoyed these conversations immensely and I am quite sure she did as well. While they were often quite spirited, we seldom disagreed on substance but from time to time, would on process.
On my many visits to Guyana getting together with Faith was a must. If I didn’t call she would. Indeed, it is hard to accept I would never again hear her say “my sister we need to talk, when can we meet”? Thanks to Erma Wills, I visited with Faith and Patrick early this month when we had what I can now call our final spirited conversation. As usual, she and I were on the same page while Erma and Pat were on the same team. I noted then she was not well although her voice was still strong, her eyes were pale, and she looked quite ill. Since she and I had always admired and respected each other, I felt I could be honest with her and told her I didn’t like how she looked. She began to tell us how poorly she felt.
As we said our goodbyes I hugged her tightly and said “Faith you have to dig deep – you are a strong woman, you can overcome this challenge”. She whispered in my ear “ June, I am tired, very tired.” She called two days later to thank me for the visit and told me how much she valued our friendship. WHAT A CLASS ACT!.
As I read of her impressive credentials and her political involvement nationally and internationally, I thought of the many vacuous and inept politicians – in all parties – and remain convinced that had she been a man with her credentials and experience, she would have been able to contribute to a greater Guyana’s development.
Rest In Peace My dear Sister.
June Veecock

Discover more from Kaieteur News

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Latest News