May 24, 1996

To Whom It May Concern:

I have known Ken Allen for approximately 11 years. During that time I have found him to be a consistently fine example of humanity. Ken is intuitive, thoughtful, and empathetic. Ken puts a great deal of effort into understanding and supporting other peoples decisions and choices. While Ken possesses a firm and admirable set of ethics, he does not force them onto others, or expect them to uphold his values. Ken's ethics are based on Kindness, fairness, and a genuine desire never to hurt others, by accident or on purpose.

Ken laughs often, makes friends easily and well, and never fails to see the humour in his own life. Ken Allen is gentle, but assertive, an extremely rare combination. Anyone enjoying a friendship with Ken will know that he is a good mirror, Never twisting your perceptions, but reflecting it with truth, honesty and unusual clarity.

Ken knows the value of human touch and closeness. He gives the best hugs on the planet, and possess the rare ability to see the difference between a hug and a hold, and apply them as needed.

Ken is loyal, hardworking, and aware enough of his own value to always do his best.

I recommend Ken Allen for anything life has to offer, and should you require further evidence, I am prepared to offer a list of other people willing to do the same. These people, having had the good sense to recognize a person of immense value when he goes walking by, have grappled Ken to their hearts with hoops of steel.
They are, as am I, grateful for Ken Allen each day of their lives.

Stephanie Pearl