Reflections on Humphrey Cordes, Beloved Teacher and Friend
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
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Posted by: Alumni Office
I
am saddened to hear of Dr. Cordes' death, but I remember our talks and
debates with great pleasure and gratitude. Although I carefully avoided
ever taking any Latin classes from him, we had many discussions about
the war in Vietnam (and war in general), all of which sharpened my
thinking and beliefs about pacifism. He strongly disagreed with me on
many points, but with a grace and ongoing commitment to our
relationship that kept it from slipping into the polarized and divisive
ranting that so often passes for debate in our day. A few years later,
when I drew a very low number in the first draft lottery, I applied for
conscientious objector status and found myself drawing on my
discussions with Dr. Cordes as I prepared my arguments. What a gift he
had given me!
On top of that, he agreed to write a letter of
support for me. In his letter to the Selective Service, Dr. Cordes
described his own background and beliefs and stated very clearly that
although he disagreed with my positions, he knew my beliefs were
sincere and entirely consistent with my upbringing. I know without
question that his letter was an important factor in my successful
application for conscientious objector status. I went on to perform two
years of alternative service, and was spared having to make some
extraordinarily difficult life decisions. I expressed my gratitude to
him on several occasions, and can only hope that I managed to convey
what an important role he played in my life. Dr. Cordes was a fine man,
and a gifted mentor and teacher. I will miss him!
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