Yesterday was a beautiful one in New York. Very warm, sunny, and with an occasional breeze. We here at NYSD were somewhat surprised at the enormous outpouring of interest in Brooke Astor, who passed away on Monday at age 105 (See NYSD 8.14.07 [1]). Although I am not surprised at the admiration and respect that she evoked, because she made a very positive impression that has inspired many others to act accordingly. Her approach to philanthropy in New York had an almost revolutionary effect on the way things were approached and done. In her own way she had an even deeper impact on society than her famous grandmother-in-law (who died when Brooke was a year old), Caroline Astor.
What was interesting to realize from the readers’ response to her death was how many different kinds of people had an affection (and admiration) for her; people all over the country. She lent herself publicly to something old-fashioned: dignity. A big word in today’s world which suffers a paucity of it; and to no one’s advantage. Mrs. Astor had dignity in bearing and presence and actions demonstrated in her philanthropy. I believe the great interest in her is a kind of subconscious thanks to a woman who appeared to seriously make the best of things for many others, and all the while having a good time doing it with dignity.
There will be a service for Mrs. Astor at St. Thomas’ Episcopal on Fifth Avenue and 53rd Street on Friday afternoon at 2:30. She made her mark, to the advantage of many of her fellows. Destiny’s child. |
