Do you remember the TV series Kung Fu (1972-'75)?  It was the story of a Shaolin monk who came to America. For those not old enough to remember,the show opened with  an elder monk saying:
 " From the crane we learn grace and self-control. The snake teaches us suppleness and rhythmic endurance. The praying mantis teaches us speed and patience. And from the tiger we learn tenacity and power. And from the dragon we learn to ride the wind ..."

So, what do we learn from the lamb, particularly, TOM LAMB?

Many of you know Tom, or have heard him on the show, or met him at Mahoning County Democratic Party events, maybe on some Democrats campaign trail, possibly you met him tirelessly working for the election of  President Obama.  Maybe you met Tom Lamb when you were voting...Tom was an observer, making certain that the rules were being followed. Have you been involved with the American Cancer Society's Relays for Life? If so, you've probably met Tom. If nothing else, if you've driven on Boardman Ohio's roads over the last many winters, you've been VERY thankful to the crew that's out early  till late, keeping them clean and passable, you may not have know to thank Tom Lamb, but he's been out there...out there while  a cancer is attacking him from within. Tom has been fighting the ravaging effect of epitheliod sarcoma for years("... epithelioid sarcoma, a cancer so rare that Americans have a better chance - a much better chance - of being struck by lightning.")  Tom's always  comforting his family and friends, never forgetting to ask about us, the rest of us who are not suffering with this awful cancer. Tom's been a tremendous support for others with epithelioid cancer, even travelling to visit and support others. When you talk with Tom, you come away feeling that his concern for you is greater than his concern for himself. That's the incredible courage of Tom Lamb. Earlier this year, Tom was told that if he didn't do some type of treatment, he  "had maybe 6 months". I cannot imagine hearing those words, neither can you. Tom courageously moves forward.  I'm sure in some  of his quiet moments, when the only ones awake are Tom, Chewie and Louie, his four-legged companions, things get emotionally difficult, but, we don't see that, we see and know  the courageous man, Tom Lamb, supporting us, ignoring HIS pain, doing what he needs to do for those whom he loves. He's been thru more than anyone should need to suffer, just to be 'ok' . Tom said to me a few days ago, "I just want to get back to work..."

 " From the crane we learn grace and self-control. The snake teaches us suppleness and rhythmic endurance. The praying mantis teaches us speed and patience. And from the tiger we learn tenacity and power. And from the dragon we learn to ride the wind ..."