Synopsis
"An Hour by Sun" is a trip down lanes of memory, rows of tobacco and corn on a thriving Georgia farm and amid the triumphs and travails of medicine in the last half of the 20th century. It is funny and nostalgic and informative, as Leonard Durrence, a retired country doctor, traces his beginnings on a depression-era farm, through the rigors of medical school and internship and the challenge of a small town medical practice. For him, the joys of retirement are just as vivid a color in the tapestry of his life as the boyhood escapades with his sisters and his curious adventures in scientific understanding. The personal elements are the strongest notes in this account, particularly the spiritual faith that weaves together all his experiences. The adolescent who was born again grows into a thoughtful adult who finds God's solid presence supporting him as he tends the sick in Bangladesh and makes tough decisions in the emergency room and operating room of his Blackshear hospital. This devoted Christian carries the same presence into a series of severe health problems that afflict him, his beloved wife and the father who has been a hero in his life. "An hour by sun" is a ritual phrase his father spoke at the close of every farming day and Dr. Durrence has cherished the meaning of those words through the years. When there is just enough light left to do the important things, one must recognize and use this "hour by sun" to accomplish this task with gratitude for all the hours that came before. He has used his significant hour to record the events of nearly 80 years and underline the way in which God has led him through them. From early childhood, when he kept the woodbox filled and harnessed the pesky mules, to a discovery of the magic of reading and learning, to the important discovery of a life partner and the joy of parenting; from deep satisfaction with healing, civic involvement, gardening and travel, and finally with retirement in a community he lov
About the Author
Sharing, and helping to shape, the lifelong memories of Leonard Durrence has been a distinct privilege and delight. As his next-door neighbor in the College Walk Retirement Community, I was "providentially," in his words, sent here to help him accomplish this book. Having experienced the multiple workings of God in his life, I'm inclined to agree. It certainly has been fun, as it is for everyone who stops on our winding streets or sits down to dinner to chat with Leonard and his remarkable wife Alyce. Leonard has not only charmed the folks here; he has inspired them and served as a good neighbor and friend, whose love of life is contagious and therefore therapeutic for us in our "golden years." What was surprising to me was his articulate approach to this autobiography. For the most part, "An Hour by Sun" is written in his words and he has an interesting variety of them, many appropriated from expressions of southeast Georgia farmers that are colorful and effective. I believe all his words, as well as some of mine, accurately convey the physician, the devoted husband and doting father, the philosopher and even the mischievous little boy who is now living with great dignity his own "hour by sun."
"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.
