Today’s Blog, in honor of our beloved, wonderful and brilliant founder, Dr. Thomas Gordon (March, 11, 1918 – August 26, 2002).
…Active Listening? He introduced it to the world with P.E.T.
…I-Messages? His creation.
…Behavior Window? 100% Tom.
…Communication Roadblocks? Yup, from him, too.
This is a partial list of his contributions that continue to help people around the globe.
Unofficial info? He loved to tell super bad puns, made it a point to relate to every person he came in contact with and wanted to know their stories. Any time there was a child near by, he would get down on their level to talk with them.
He was indeed a great man with a great legacy and we’re doing more than carrying on his legacy—we made it ours and we are on a mission to help the world get along better.
Below is an incredible poem written by Bud Upshaw (L.E.T. Master Trainer), for Tom’s 80th birthday — we hope you enjoy it.
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A Peaceful Score
Some giants
Make loud and violent sounds
In a language only they can sing
Solo
But you composed a peaceful score
Unfettered and true
With melodies
We somehow dimly knew
Yet not until the notes you played
And the modulations you honed
Exquisitely intoned
Did we, inspired, awaken
Some giants
Make rich and inviting sounds
Sparking ensembles everywhere
To rise and sing and dance – together
Right on, Tom, and Write on…
– Bud Upshaw 3/11/1998