Gratitude Journal, (November 19, 2025) As electrical connections spark more frequently, I can nevertheless recall the wonderful BHS class of '64 reunion, June 29th 2024. Sadly, some of you quietly slipped away (no, you did't die) from the gathering before we could visit and get to know each other better.

Leaving my self-centered teenage life behind, I enjoyed coming to understand what remarkable women and men you each are. Men often talk about accomplishments, places lived or traveled to. But the women I find are most remarkable, perhaps they never left Davis country for long, but each has contributed to raising the next generation, your own or others, and helped your communities be better and stronger. Yes, it is the women who are most remarkable.

So, here is a tribute from a lesser-known poet, Joaquin Miller (1837-1913): "The bravest battle that was ever fought; shall I tell you where and when? On the battle field you will find it not. Twas fought by the mothers of men. Aye, deep in a walled up woman's heart, of a woman who would not yield, But bravely, silently bore her part - Lo, there was the battlefield."

A better-known luminary, Clark Jenkins, said to me, "I've had the privilege of being around so many of the women of our class and believe me they are incredible. I feel so blessed to be a part of our class."

Perhaps, like me, the rust is beginning to show on you, loose rivets make movement slower. However, there is much to be grateful for in this 80th and 81st year of our lives. Thanks for being you and opportunities to stay in touch.

John Chipman Carmel, Indiana