CELEBRATING SPEED ON HIS 80th!

I always think of Speed as “A Gentleman and a Scholar”! - Such a timeless phrase of so few words that encompasses the spirit and achievements of a very highly regarded and respected individual, and one that I heard Speed use on occasion. Now whenever I hear that phrase, I always think of Speed!

I met Speed on a rainy day in October of 1997. I had run into my neighbor, Sue Lapp, one afternoon and she had told me she was going back to school and would not be able to continue with her current position as time would not allow. She spoke of an incredible and unique job supporting an incredible man. She was concerned about finding a good replacement once she moved on. As it should happen, I was looking for a new job and Sue thought that I would be a good fit for the Office of Speed Leas. Although it was part-time, I decided to take her suggestion and go for an interview. Upon arriving at the incredibly beautiful home of Speed and Connie, I immediately felt at ease. They felt like family and the office work was a perfect fit.

I found Speed to be the most fascinating man I had ever met. A Scholar indeed! His library so rich and full of books, I was astonished at its size and impeccable organization. My father was a writer, so growing up, our home was also filled with many books, so this environment felt familiar. I learned so much from working with Speed – having a chance to type, proofread and make copies of his many teachings and seminars. There was always a peaceful balance to be obtained by those who wanted his help and guidance, for which they received from Speed in abundance.

He also turned me on to his “long-hair” music (much different from my long-hair music!) which was also familiar to me as my father loved classical music as well. I have always believed that Speed and I had a certain synergy that worked well for his teachings and travels. I feel so fortunate and cherish the time I got to experience working for such a remarkable individual.

Also at that time, I had a young son, Nat, who was around 15 years old and was just starting to learn a lot about computers and the internet. He had actually built a couple of websites and when Speed caught wind of this, he hired my son to build him a new website! My son and I felt so honored and touched that Speed would assign such a task to my 15-year-old, but also gave my son such confidence and character building, it was amazing. Afterwards he told Nat, “You are a Gentleman and a Scholar!” What a kind and supportive thing to say to a struggling 15 year old boy. This is the kind of heart that Speed has and why he has had such a successful career.

It’s a true honor to know you, Speed, and to have worked with you and watched as you helped so many work out their differences and come together to make the world a better place. YOU are truly THE GENTLEMAN AND SCHOLAR. You have a VERY special place in my heart (and Nat’s as well) and I just want to say THANK YOU SO MUCH, and HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! And here’s to many more!

With Love and Respect,

Pam Contos