John Lewis - Rest in Peace, and in Power

If you worked in Downtown Atlanta in the late 60s, through the 70s, you more than likely caught a glimpse of John Lewis. 

If he was one of your heroes you might have worked up the courage to approach him to shake his hand. 

I did that when I saw him leaving a small restaurant off of Five Points behind what was then The Trust Company of Georgia, which is where I was working at the time.  

I couldn't think of a single thing to say, just shook his hand. 

He looked at me with wise gentle eyes and said, "it's all going to be all right. We're working, working hard." 

I nodded my head and fought back some tears. 

I don't remember the name of the restaurant, even though it was a place I'd go fairly often for a cup of coffee and a breakfast special, but I do remember the name of the woman who worked the counter; Ruby. 

When I walked in and sat down Ruby handed me a napkin to wipe my eyes, took my order and said, "John Lewis is a great man." 

I'm crying a little bit today for the loss of John Lewis and wondering about Ruby.