Mrs. Lynn Terry, Prior Vice-President of the Executive Council of Beta Sigma Phi and prior Vice-President of the Educational Foundation |
 "Lynn Terry's childhood was spent in Southeast Missouri. Even as a child she had an inquiring mind, eager to know people and to read everything she could get her hands on. Later, after her marriage, she lived in Louisiana. Much of her education was acquired through travel. Before joining the International Staff of Beta Sigma Phi she traveled with Chautauqua.
Lynn Terry became associated with Beta Sigma Phi in 1933, when she met Mr. Ross during her travels. She liked what she heard from him about the goals and ideals of Beta Sigma Phi and was convinced that this was to be her life's work. |
Lynn Terry became associated with Beta Sigma Phi in 1933, when she met Mr. Ross during her travels. She liked what she heard from him about the goals and ideals of Beta Sigma Phi and was convinced that this was to be her life's work.
After traveling in the eastern part of the United States establishing new Chapters, Lynn came to the International Office to work on programs and rituals, and to become Vice President of the Executive Council. In writing the programs and rituals, Lynn brought into full play not only her great knowledge and ability, but her understanding of the real desire of Beta Sigma Phis to develop and make a real contribution to life.
In 1943 Mrs. Terry became President of Nu Phi Mu which was, at that time, a separate organization instead of the first degree of Beta Sigma Phi. The two organizations were very close, of course, and though she devoted much of her time to managing the younger organization, she continued to play an active part in Beta Sigma Phi.
Lynn was interested in many things and many people. "Living" was her hobby and she made a fine art of learning through living. Lynn was a great thinker and had a tremendous imagination.
In June of 1975 Lynn wrote a personal letter to me and I think I would not be breaking faith with her to share part of that letter with you. It illustrates her faith and belief. It began . . .
"I have been sitting on the back porch (in Arizona) looking at a
cloud shaped like a doughnut with a feathery up-turned tail. This
is a good place to think . . .
A few days ago I was lecturing a young doctor friend of mine
about his cynicism when he asked 'Do you know anyone who is
happy? Do you know anyone who likes their work after years of
it?' And naturally I said, 'I am. I do.' I can't enjoy life at my age
(84) in the same way I used to, but I can be grateful for the wonders
it has given me, and I know that a grateful heart is the essence of a
happy life.
That is what Beta Sigma Phi has done for me. What a tragedy
not to be able to believe in the goodness--the God-ness--of life.
I could not prove to anybody the continuance of personal life after
death because I don't know (or need to know) God's plan that far.
I only know that life has been so fulfilling, so rich in good
experiences that I am glad to take whatever else God has in store."
Much of Lynn Terry's belief in the friendship of Beta Sigma Phi shows through in the article "Our Magic" which she wrote for The Torch several years ago."
Please refer to "Our Magic" included in the index. |
