Friday, January 30, 2015
Mr. Hildebrandt, such a most engaging mind: omnivorous in interests, passionate for a just cause, humane, courageous, caring, a voice at the gate of decision with a riveting delivery and heart-felt concern for everyone, a true lover of dawn succeeding night. Thinking of Auden's line: "With your unconstraining voice, still persuade us to rejoice," I hear Mr. Hildebrandt speaking in the Orange Presbyterian Church over these years, dismissive of his own physical challenges, swift to say, there is life to live, make a noise for the good side and for your own God-given muse, hold nothing back.
Like Blake--"I will not cease from mental strife, nor shall my sword sleep in my hand, till we have built Jerusalem in England's green and pleasant land"—Mr. Hildebrandt dared us to meet the challenges in our own hearts and places and stand with all our brothers and sisters. I have looked so often to those times in his presence for inspiration over these years. Blessings on his great soul, and my deepest sympathy and best wishes to all the Hildebrandts and their families.
Love,
Wilson Somerville
