Book Description

"An Hour by Sun" is a trip down lanes of memory, rows of tobacco and corn on a thriving Georgia farm and amid the triumphs and travails of medicine in the last half of the 20th century. It is funny and nostalgic and informative, as Leonard Durrence, a retired country doctor, traces his beginnings on a depression-era farm, through the rigors of medical school and internship and the challenge of a small town medical practice. For him, the joys of retirement are just as vivid a color in the tapestry of his life as the boyhood escapades with his sisters and his curious adventures in scientific understanding. The personal elements are the strongest notes in this account, particularly the spiritual faith that weaves together all his experiences. The adolescent who was born again grows into a thoughtful adult who finds God's solid presence supporting him as he tends the sick in Bangladesh and makes tough decisions in the emergency room and operating room of his Blackshear hospital. This devoted Christian carries the same presence into a series of severe health problems that afflict him, his beloved wife and the father who has been a hero in his life. "An hour by sun" is a ritual phrase his father spoke at the close of every farming day and Dr. Durrence has cherished the meaning of those words through the years. When there is just enough light left to do the important things, one must recognize and use this "hour by sun" to accomplish this task with gratitude for all the hours that came before. He has used his significant hour to record the events of nearly 80 years and underline the way in which God has led him through them. From early childhood, when he kept the woodbox filled and harnessed the pesky mules, to a discovery of the magic of reading and learning, to the important discovery of a life partner and the joy of parenting; from deep satisfaction with healing, civic involvement, gardening and travel, and finally with retirement in a community he loves, through all these stages the good doctor has found deep pleasure, challenge and "peace that passes all understanding."