(Editor’s Note:  This article appeared in the July/August 2010 issue of Apple Pickin’s News, the newsletter of Applewood Pointe Cooperative of Woodbury.  Harry Kruger, 86, is vice-president of our Seniors Division and a very active member of our Metro Chapter.)

For many years, the national Presbyterian Church has recognized one Sunday in June as Disability Access/Inclusion Sunday.

On Sunday, June 27th, our own Harry Krueger, spoke to his congregation, as part of the recognition of that special day.

Those who know Harry well are aware of his love of poetry and his wonderful sense of humor.  During his presentation he used both of these special attributes.  He had no notes and spoke from memory and from his heart.

He gave the congregation a little of his history and experiences living with his ever diminishing sight.  The loss of his sight began when he was a child.  And it is truly remarkable the wonderful things he has done even with his physical disability.

Harry is a member of the National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota and has attended several of its annual conventions.  At first it was a bit scary and he didn't know whether or not it would be a successful experience.  Because of his good nature and determination, everything worked out well and he did just fine.

He is looking forward to attending this year's convention to be held in Dallas, TX during the week of July 2nd.

When he completed his speech, he received an enthusiastic ovation.

Harry began his speech by telling the congregation what the poet and work of John Milton meant to him.  He specifically referred to the poem by Milton written in 1655 and entitled On His Blindness.  The last line of the poem is especially meaningful for him.

I asked him to interpret the line and he said, "God doesn't expect anyone to do anything other than to wait His bidding."

Harry does not let his disability handicap him unduly.  He lives his life to the fullest and, although there are times when he needs and does receive a little help from his friends and neighbors, his attitude concerning people with disabilities is that "We don't need things done for us; we need help to do things for ourselves.”  Fortunately, most of us here at Applewood Pointe realize that and act accordingly.

On His Blindness

John Milton 1655

When I consider how my light is spent

Ere half my days in this dark world and wide,

And that one Talent which is death to hide

Lodged with me useless, though my soul more bent

To serve therewith my Maker, and present

My true account, lest He returning chide,

"Doth God exact day-labour, light denied?"

I fondly ask.  But Patience, to prevent

That murmur, soon replies, "God doth not need

Either man's work or his own gifts.  Who best

          Bear his mild yoke, they serve him best. His state

Is kingly: thousands at his bidding speed,

And post o’er land and ocean without rest;

They also serve who only stand and wait."