The death of philanthropist Brooke Astor at the age of 105 has hit me profoundly. She was a women of class and her path was not always "easy" and she suffered many disappointments. As a role model to all women, nonetheless, she found her great satisfaction in personal restraint, public service, conversation, and nature. She lost many friends and family along her life's journey. Mrs. Astor living to 105 left the real life lesson to "girl everywhere" that yes, do everything you can to make your surfaces shine, but nothing enhances outer allure like the inner acceptance and appreciation of life on life's terms. Her approach to philanthropy in New York had an almost revolutionary effect on the way things were approached and done.
Mrs. Astor was all grace in action. She gave away nearly $200 million. Her life's motto summed up her generosity: "Money is like manure, it should be spread around."
Her funeral will be held on Friday. August 17, 2007 at 2:30 p.m. at St. Thomas Church on Fifth Avenue. For the first time in 150 years, New York does not have a "Mrs. Astor" as its social mentor. We shall all miss her, she had her own way she had a deep impact on society.
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